Beckham Chadwick West's Obituary
Beckham Chadwick West, of Memphis, TN, passed away on August 31st, 2025 while proudly serving in the United States Air Force. Though his time on earth was short, he lived every day with a spirit that was genuine and unshakably true to himself.
Born on June 24th, 2005, Beckham had a deep love for life, his family, friends and God. He touched everyone who knew him with his joy and authenticity, and lived with integrity, curiosity and a love for adventure. Whatever Beckham pursued, he did it with his whole heart, and inspired others to live fully, too.
After graduating from Crosstown High School in 2023, Beckham followed his calling to serve his country and join the Air Force. He carried the same love for life into his service, developing strong bonds with his fellow airmen and giving his best to every task, large or small. His pursuit of excellence stood out, and Senior Airman West earned both the Airman of the Quarter award for the 755th Operations Support Squadron and the Davis-Monthan AFB Desert Lightning Team Airman of the Quarter award in 2025. Based on his strong performance, he was preparing for his second deployment later this year.
Beckham is survived by his mother, Crystal Ann Keck, his father Justin Chadwick West and his stepmother Rachel Avery West; his brother Grayson West and step siblings Parker, Liza and Jack Russ; his grandparents Jill and Phil Simmons, Carole and Grant Knighton (Grant pre-deceased in death), Jeff West and step grandparents Karen and Jim Avery; his great grandparents Norma Peterson, Joyce West, and Leo and Doris West. He was dearly loved by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and friends.
A celebration of Beckham’s life will be held on September 23rd at Hope Presbyterian Church Chapel 8500 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis, TN. Visitation 11am - 12 pm, funeral services at 12 pm followed by a full military honors burial at West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery 4000 Forest Hill Irene Road, Memphis, TN.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Crosstown High School, towards a memorial in Beckham’s honor.
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