West Columbia Haynes of Gaffney, SC, was called to rest on Wednesday morning, February 09, 2022, at his home of residence. He was a dedicated husband and father whose words of wis-dom inspired many.
Son of the late Tom Haynes and Mozell Williams Haynes, he was born February 14, 1936 in the city of Lawndale, N.C. He was preceded in death by (brothers) Henry Louis, Andy, Thomas Jr.., (sisters) Florine, Minnie Lee, Sallie Myrtle, Alice, Gussie Belle, Emma Lillie, and Moselle. West has one surviving sibling, Ambrouse Columbia (AC) Haynes of Lawndale, N.C.
West was a graduate of the Mighty Douglass High School Warrior Class of 1955 in Lawndale North Carolina where he was a member of the New Farmers of America focused on leadership, and community service in addition to be honored as being the best athlete by his classmates.
West furthered his education and commitment to service by volunteering to serve our nation as a member of the United States Air Force, where he progressed and earned the rank of Staff Sargent. Staff Sargent Haynes’ commitment allowed him to serve throughout North America, Europe and Africa. This service included honoring our 35th President John F. Kennedy by marching in his 1960 Inaugural Parade. And concluded his duty service at the Sundance Wyo-ming nuclear Powered radar station. Staff Sargent Haynes Maintained a “service before self” posture throughout his military career and applied it to his entire life.
West and the former Ida B. Oglesby were united in holy matrimony for 63 years. He and Ida wed on June 13th 1959 in Gaffney, SC where they would eventually build their forever home. Of this union three children were born Kathy Denise Haynes-Short (deceased), Arnold Keith (the best) and Eric Bernard (pray for him). West was the epitome of hard work as he sustained employment with Stouffers for many years before retirement. He was known for a good joke and working at his own speed. West has been a faithful member of Mikes Creek Baptist Church for 44 years. He has served in a variety of positions including trustee and father of the Church. West is known and sought out for his good counsel.
West leaves behind a Best Friend and loving wife Ida Haynes of Gaffney, SC, 2 children (Arnold Keith Haynes Sr. (Elydrith) of Saratoga Springs, NY and Eric Bernard Haynes of Mem-phis, Tennessee), 6 Grand Children (Millicent Haynes, Kelcey Haynes-Brown (Kyndren), Ar-nold K Haynes II (Fiancé’ Noelle Casey) Dhaya Haynes, Brandon Haynes (their Mother Michelle Haynes-Drakeford), and Marcus Wesley Short), a beloved nephew (Travis Norris of Gaffney), 4 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
Graveside Service will be held Saturday, February 19th, at 12:00 noon, in Fredrick Memorial Gardens.