Former Nashville Vice Mayor Jay West has died at age 65.
West was not only a former vice mayor but also a past Metro councilman and prominent lobbyist at the Tennessee General Assembly.
A close family member said he had been in the hospital at Tristar Centennial Medical Center for the past week and a half, but died unexpectedly Wednesday.
It was unclear what the cause of death was. West was elected vice mayor in 1995.
He will be buried at the city cemetery where his parents are buried.
Details on funeral arrangements have not been released.
The West family friend and spokesman David Heflin released the following statement:
“Jay West loved Nashville and like his father was dedicated to a life of public service as a way to make his hometown a better place. He played an important role and was proud of what our city has become and was excited about where it’s going. Most of all, he treasured the friendships made throughout his life.”
Mayor Megan Barry expressed her condolences on Twitter Wednesday evening.
I'm saddened to learn of the passing of Jay West, who served our city with dignity and honor. My prayers go out to his family and friends. https://t.co/Pu65bDUgSK
— Megan Barry (@MayorMeganBarry) March 1, 2017
