Barbara Alcaraz

Barbara Alcaraz, loving mother and partner, died Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at the York PA hospice. She was 82 and leaves behind her daughter, Deborah Alcaraz-D’Andrea and longtime partner, James West.

Barbara was a loving mother, partner, and friend to all who shared in her journey of 82 years. She met Ernie Alcaraz when she was a dance instructor in San Diego, married and had her daughter Debbie. Then, Barbara returned to college, achieving her San Diego State bachelor's degree after raising her daughter; and traveling through many countries solo on the Euro-rail for a summer. Barbara was a very intelligent woman, ahead of her time in many ways; groundbreaking on the computer and real estate scene; deeply involved in political change, including being intimately involved in the League of Woman Voters. Barbara was one of the original founding members of the Bel Air Unitarian Church, a church where all were welcome, were family; and all learned about a variety of religions. She was a voracious reader of books, exploring all views, a thirst for knowledge; always standing up for her beliefs, living her best life, grabbing it by the reins. The past few decades, Barbara and James West partnered, sharing a beautiful life together as they entered their retirement years. They shared a love of planes, dogs, walks in the forest, and a special connection. Jim and she were perfectly content, enjoying life their way, on their terms.

Barbara was born November 2, 1940 in San Diego, CA. Her life is an inspiration for all to live your best life with kindness, compassion, love, and curiosity. Let light and love always be your guide.