Barbara J. West

Barbara J. (Noble) West, 90, lifelong resident of Plainville, cherished mother and Nana to all, the local legend, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 11, 2025 in the comfort of her home of 70 years, surrounded by her loving family, while listening to the sounds of Amazing Grace. Barbara was born on July 30, 1934 in Plainville, CT, daughter of the late Lawrence Noble Sr. and Genevieve "Jennie" (Kaczmarczyk) Noble. While working as a waitress at the former Cooke's Tavern, now known as J. Timothy's, she met the love of her life, Herbert O. West. Their connection was immediate and deep, sparking a partnership filled with unforgettable memories. Together, they built a home in Plainville where they nurtured and raised their children, instilling in them the values of kindness, hard work, and the importance of family bonds. Nana's journey began as a hairstylist, a role that ignited her passion for helping others feel their best. As a devoted mother, she transformed her home into a salon, skillfully balancing family life and her career to provide for her children. Her nurturing nature extended to her time as a patient transport and aide at New Britain General Hospital, where she formed lasting connections with patients and colleagues alike, brightening their days with her warmth and care. However, it was her role as a Funeral Assistant at Bailey Funeral Home that truly showcased Nana's remarkable gift for compassion and support. Under the guidance of Jim Bailey and his family, she flourished in this capacity, bringing comfort and solace to those in their time of need. Her welcoming presence and infectious smile made an indelible mark on the lives she touched. Well known for her strong will, unapologetic honesty, and fiercely independent spirit, she never hesitated to share her thoughts and opinions, making every conversation a delightful experience filled with her spirited views. If you ever had the pleasure of speaking with her on the phone, you likely found yourself set for a long chat, as Nana's warmth and passion for life could not be confined to short exchanges. Those who knew her will remember her for her distinctive voice and the way she could light up a room with her presence. Though she often preferred to remain behind the camera, skillfully capturing moments rather than being the center of attention, her laughter and playful spirit lit up the lives of those around her. She had a unique ability to make even the simplest gatherings feel special, often creating lasting memories through her thoughtful gestures and loving presence. Nana was more than a friend; she was family to many. With her open-door policy, she created a haven of comfort where laughter mingled with love, and every visitor was treated as part of her extended household. Her exceptional ability to connect with others, including their furry companions, showcased her nurturing nature and her belief that every being deserves kindness. She was known for her immaculate home, a true reflection of her meticulous nature and her belief that a clean space fosters a joyful heart. Her friends and family admired her extraordinary attention to detail and cleanliness, often using it as a measure of her deep care for those around her. With each room filled with treasured memories and polished brass, her home became a gathering place where laughter and love flourished. Highly intuitive, Nana had an extraordinary gift for sensing when someone was in need. Those who sought her support found in her not only a confidante but a source of wisdom and understanding. Her presence was a beacon of light during difficult times and her genuine smile had the power to uplift even the heaviest of hearts. Nana's legacy will forever echo in the lives she enriched. She leaves behind a community of friends and family who will cherish the countless memories made during her remarkable journey. Nana is survived by her daughter, Lorna West Rhinebolt, of Saco, ME, her daughter, Bonnie Mazurek and her husband, David, of Plainville, her son, Brian West, of Plainville, her daughter, Sheri Boudewyns and her husband, James, of Plainville, her step-daughter, Beverly Turner, of MA; her grandchildren, Leighton Mazurek and his wife, Joie-Marie, Brian Mazurek and his fiancée, Jenny Blake, Kiley Mazurek and his wife, Melissa, Nicole Maldonado and her husband, Marcelo, Emily DeAngelo and her husband, Michael, Jesse Boudewyns and his partner, Heather Sweeney, Nathan Cameron and his wife, Katrina, Timothy West and his wife, Alyssa, Mark Turner, and Glenn Turner; and her favorites, the babies of the family, her great-grandchildren, James, Jake, Evan, Maddox, Merek, Maeve, Wesley, Henry, Benjamin, Connell, Mabel, Harper, Sadie, Aeliana, and Rosie. She is also survived by her brother, Lawrence Noble Jr., of FL, her sister, Lorna Noble Tobin, of Alna, ME, and her special niece, Jill Cotta and her husband, Shanon, along with their 3 children, of Alna, ME. She also leaves her beloved neighbor and best friend, Jennifer Maksymiw, along with her family, her husband, Michael, and their daughters, Sofia and Julia. She was predeceased by her husband, Herbert O. West and her beloved uncle, Franklin Noble. Family and friends are welcome to gather on Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 9 AM to 11 AM at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. Nana's Celebration of Life led by Life Celebrant Jesse Gnazzo will begin at 11 AM at the funeral home. Barbara will be laid to rest with her husband at West Cemetery, Plainville following the service. In lieu of flowers and honoring Nana's love for children, donations in memory of her may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (stjude.org). For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara J. (Noble) West, please visit our floral store.