West Minchew

Homer, LA: Private funeral services was held at Rose-Neath Kilpatrick Funeral Home with Brother Danny Baskin serving as officiant, for Mr. West "Buddy" Minchew (age 80), who passed away at the Presbyterian Village Nursing home on February 10, 2021. Buddy was fond of saying, "I was born on the banks of the Tensas River" in Newellton, LA on February 26, 1940, to Wes and Alice (nee Calvit) Minchew. West was trained as a cake decorator and baker in Los Angeles, California where he worked for many years. During this time he met and married Connie Heredia and had three sons: Robert, Michael, and John. When the marriage concluded he returned to Homer, Louisiana to assist his mother with the King Size Bakery, originally located on the historic square of Homer. He met and married Frances Hightower Thompson in 1982 and the family helped to move the bakery to its final location and expanded to a full restaurant. They served the people of Homer and surrounding areas for 33 years until 2015 when they retired. His many interests included playing golf, making jewelry, gardening, and reading the Bible. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Homer. He earned his certification to teach Sunday school. Buddy is preceded in death by his wife, parents, sisters Shirley May McKenzie and Mandy Ruple, and son Michael Minchew. He is survived by his sons Robert Minchew, John Minchew (Denise), and four step children: Kaylon Thompson French, David Thompson (Paula), Camille Thompson Wise, Nathan Thompson (Jennifer), grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, their families, and a host of very dear friends. Pallbearers were: John Minchew, Alex Minchew, David Thompson, Nathan Thompson, Vince Orry, and Scotty Gross. The family would like to extend their heart-felt gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Cliff Salmon, Dr. Herbert Vandenberg, the staff of Presbyterian Village Nursing Home, and Claiborne Memorial Hospital for their kind and compassionate care. Please respect the families wishes for their request of a private, family-only service to protect people from illness. In lieu of flowers and plants, the family asks that any remembrance of Buddy's life be in the form of a donation to a charity or organization of your choice in his name. Please continue to pray for the repose of his soul and for the family throughout this difficult time.