Jimmy West
Jimmy West, who served as executive director of the Leading Jewelers Guild for more than 40 years, has died. He had recently retired from the Culver City, CA-based cooperative of independent jewelers.
West joined LJG in its art department in 1979, where he worked on the organization’s catalog mailings — a program that became one of the group’s signature offerings. Over time, he assumed increasing responsibility, eventually leading the organization as executive director. Under his watch, LJG operated a network of approximately 150 stores nationwide and developed the Love Story diamond brand, a patented selling system that became central to members’ marketing efforts.
In an announcement message, the LJG board described West as “the glue that held our LJG family together,” crediting his leadership with making possible the succession plan that guides the organization today. “That transition was not without its challenges, but Jimmy was always there — steady, patient, and generous with his time and knowledge,” the board wrote. “Without him, it simply wouldn’t have happened.”
“I have known Jimmy for over 40 years,” said Nate Morgan, a longtime LJG member. “He started in the art department … As people retired or moved on from Leading, Jimmy took on more responsibilities. Even under his predecessor, Jimmy did all the organizing, put together the arrangements for hotels, the agendas and much more. As Jimmy became the director, he kept all the responsibilities under his thumb and always made things run smoothly. What a great person Jimmy was, and I am proud to say we were friends.”
The Leading Jewelers Guild is collecting memories, photos, and stories from those who knew West. Those wishing to share remembrances may send them to Allison Jacobi at [email protected].
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