John Beverly West

The inward dweller of John Beverly "Bev" West, of Lisbon, Portugal, and formerly of Altavista, Virginia, reunited with the universal consciousness on February 26, 2026. He is survived by his son, Christian B. West of Lynchburg, Virginia; his daughter, Stacey M. Allcorn (Nathan Allcorn) his cherished grandchildren-Emilie, Charis, Helen, Isaac of W. York, Illinois, and his brother Courtney S. West, and Courtney's husband, Adam S. Bobrow, of Lisbon, Portugal. His life partner and love Marcia Ballariny of Lisbon, Portugal provided unconditional love and care until his very last breath. She made his final days more comfortable and peaceful. Through good and bad times, they are bound by love throughout eternity. Bev was deeply appreciative of the friendship, kindness, and guidance of the many family members, friends, colleagues, and mentors who shaped his personal and professional life. Among the advice that stayed with him always was a simple directive from Robert L. Byrd: "If you tell someone you are going to do something, do it." This became his personal credo, one he shared generously with others throughout his journey. He enjoyed a lifelong and unbreakable friendship with Terry J. Arthur, a bond strengthened by fate and their shared Taylor family roots. Their adventures-whether in Altavista, at Virginia Tech, or in countless places beyond-were legendary. Terry's wife, Diane, often reminded Bev with affection, "We know you are crazy and love you anyway." Bev held special gratitude for the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Champalimaud Foundation and Hospital da Luz whose professionalism and compassion provided him with what he believed to be the finest medical care in the world. He asked that a paraphrase of a famous soliloquy be included in remembrance: "I've seen and done things most people only dream of. All those moments will be lost in time, like tears in rain." At his request, there will be no memorial service. His ashes will be scattered in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of his beloved adopted home of Portugal. He was always most at home in and beneath the sea, and his return there was his final wish. Those who wish to honor Bev in a special way may make a contribution to the Kidney Cancer Foundation (KCA). Farewell to everyone who made his life better and worthwhile.