Classie Jo West

Obituary For Classie Jo West

Ms. Classie Jo West
March 20, 2026

Ms. Classie Jo West, 87, entered into rest on Friday, March 20, 2026 in Los Angeles, California after a brief illness. A memorial service will be held in Augusta, Georgia at a later date. She is preceded in death by her parents, Angelo and Classie Anderson and her sisters, Ms. Jessie Miller, Mrs. Lucile Armstrong, Ms. Earlene Gray, and Ms. Cassandra Cain.

Born in Augusta, Georgia on December 1, 1938, Classie was a proud graduate of Lucy Craft Laney High School and Paine College, where she nurtured her passion for both the arts and education. She dedicated nearly 40 years sharing her love of children as an educator in the New York and Richmond County Systems.

A talented artist, Classie studied art at Augusta University and was well known for her pristine gardens, life-like portraits, and colorful bulletin boards created for several schools and churches around the CSRA. She was also a notable speaker for many Women’s Day celebrations given her natural ability to connect with her audience with grace, humor, and humility.

One of her greatest joys was directing the “Hanging of the Greens” Christmas program at Tabernacle Baptist Church, where she was a member for more than 40 years. She served as a church trustee and presided over the Wedding Decorating committee for over a decade.

The role that defined her most was being a dedicated mother to her only child Allison Samuels. Their bond was truly unbreakable. She was also a loving sister, aunt, great aunt, and dear friend to so many.

Classie is survived by her daughter, Allison Samuels of Los Angeles, California; sisters, Ms. Hattie Fishburn of Los Angeles, California, Major Florence Lloyd of Sterling, Virginia, and Colonel Marian (Jesse) Bush of Annandale, Virginia; numerous beloved nieces, nephews, grand nieces, and a host of loving friends.

W.H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30901 (706)722-6401

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