Joel "Gypsy" Emanuel West , of Rockford departed this earthly life January 18, 2024. He was born May 6, 1959 in Chicago, IL the son of Joseph  and Sammie Mae West. Joel lived in Rockford  27 years coming from Chicago, IL. He attended New Birth Kingdom Church. Joel assisted his wife with her daycare. He graduated from Hyde Park High School.

Joel leaves to cherish many loving memories,  his loving wife; Velma; son, Allen Sanders four grandchildren; Destiny Sanders, Allen D. Sanders Jr., Alexus Sanders and Elijah Sanders; two brothers, Barry West and Tommy (Joan) West; sister, Beverly (James) Dawson; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends special friends, Billy Billco Cleveland and Bernard Hall and special nephew, Isaiah Miller. He was predeceased by his parents; Joseph West Jr; two sisters, Rosemary Sykes and Sheila A. West.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Deliverance Crusader 2101 Auburn Street. Burial in Willwood Burial Park.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.