Alma R. West

ALMA R. WASHBURN WEST

Alma R. West, 98, passed from this life into the everlasting arms of Jesus on July 28, 2024. Born in Springfield, MA, the youngest of 5 children to a New England pioneer pastor/church planter father and educator mother. An exceptional musician, she was graduated from Eastern Nazarene College with a degree in music, followed by advanced training at the New England Conservatory of Music.

She was preceded in death by Harry, her loving husband of more than 65 years, her parents Rev. Charles J. and Florence M. Washburn, and siblings, Marian Washburn, Calvin Washburn, Sarah Brigham, and Esther Randall.

She is survived by children Dr. Daniel C. West (Deborah), Patricia White (Owen Jr.), and Carolyn May (John); 11 Grandchildren: Owen White III, Janelle Murphy, David Baker, Troy White, Lauren Wiedenroth, Andrew Baker, Meredith Allen, Colin West, Tyler May, Aliya May, and Aaron West; and 26 Great-grandchildren.

Alma is remembered most importantly as a devout Christian prayer warrior, her warm infectious smile, musician, gracious host to the lonely and underserved, and wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her life was centered around her family, the church, and music. A resident of Lancaster County, primarily Terre Hill, for over 40 years, she was a member of the New Holland Church of the Nazarene and was very active in teaching, discipling, and missions. Many women have been blessed by her wisdom and prayerful ministry.

In the community, Alma was well respected in her role as a piano teacher for over 60 years, providing classical piano training to students from beginner to advanced. Many of her students subsequently pursued advanced degrees in piano performance and teaching. Formerly a music faculty member at Eastern Nazarene College in Boston, she taught piano performance, music history and theory, counterpoint, and solfeggio.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the New Holland Church of the Nazarene, 428 Ranck Rd, New Holland on August 24, 2024. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed with a celebratory service at 11:00AM. Rev. Marjorie Fisk, niece, and grandson Rev. Owen White, III will officiate. In lieu of flowers, feel free to contribute to the Church of the Nazarene World Evangelization Fund.