(From the message that was sent to the congregation by Rev. Dr. Jason Cook, adapted by Glenda Nowakowski)

I am writing to inform you of the sad news that after an ongoing health battle, Barbara McCoy died on March 21, 2025. She was a long-time member of UU of SCV. During these last days, Barbara was receiving hospice care while surrounded by friends and family.

Barbara was a valued part of our community where she contributed in multiple ways to congregational life over the years. In the days and weeks ahead, I encourage you to share stories of Barbara’s life and legacy. When I visited with Barbara a few weeks ago, I spent time with a person more concerned about her family, friends, and church community than she was about her own health issues. She expressed contentment with her life–and even though it had not always been a “perfect” life, she expressed that it had absolutely been a “good” one. She was at peace with this knowledge and aware that her remaining time was likely short.

Barbara expressed that even though her world had understandably gotten smaller in recent months, it was nonetheless still filled with warmth and meaning. The care from family and friends (including members of this congregation) was profoundly moving to her; over and over, she spoke in quiet awe of it.

She will be remembered quite fondly by this congregation and those whose lives she touched over the years. I am grateful to have known Barbara (albeit briefly) and I know many others share that sentiment. Please keep Barbara’s family and
loved ones in your thoughts, respecting the space and time they might need to process this transition and make any future plans. This is also a time when members of our congregation can look to one another for support as we grieve and remember.

Again, my deepest condolences to all for this loss. Let us remember Barbara with the love and appreciation she so deserves.