Joe Robert Grist Sr., president of Snyder-based West Texas State Bank, passed away on August 13 in Snyder at the age of 58.

After earning his bachelor’s degree from Abilene Christian University and a master’s degree from Hardin-Simmons University, Grist launched his banking career. His professional career was spent working alongside his father, John E. Grist, and stepmother Verna Grist, in banks in Andrews, Midland and Snyder for many years. Prior to his passing, Grist served as president of West Texas State Bank, which has offices in Lubbock, Odessa, Rowena and Snyder.

Outside of work, Grist was a loving father, dependable friend and silver-tongued conversationalist proficient in the art of humor. Above all, according to his obituary, he was a man who cared for and empathized with those whom many others often wouldn’t.

Grist is survived by his father, John E. Grist; stepmother, Verna Grist; his three sons: Joe Robert Grist Jr., and fiancé Laura Alaniz of Austin; Brandon Mac Grist, wife Brianda Grist, and grandchildren Noah and Emberly of Abilene; and Matthew Aaron Grist, and fiancé Anley Longshore of San Angelo; and his uncle John Robert Sayles of Nashville, Tennessee.