Rev. Rebecca S. West

Pastor Rebecca West, age 64, passed away suddenly on December 13, 2025 in her home. She was the devoted wife of Pastor James West and loving mother to her children, Benjamin and Adam West. Rebecca, the youngest of six children born to James Andrew and Mary Antoinette Scholze was born in Forest Hills, Pittsburgh PA on February 22, 1961. She attended St Maurice School in Forest Hills and went on to graduate from St Thomas HS in North Braddock PA. She earned her undergraduate degree from John Carroll University and a Master's Degree from Seton Hall. After years in corporate work, she answered her true calling as a pastor, graduating from United Lutheran Seminary in Gettysburg PA then serving congregations at both Moxham Lutheran Church in Johnstown PA and Christ Lutheran in Westmont PA. Rebecca had a curious soul, a drive to learn, and a deep appreciation for new experiences. She raised her children in the forests and public lands from the Laurel Highlands to the Adirondacks of upstate New York, instilling in them a love for adventure and independence. Later in life, her adventurous spirit led her to explore cultures around the world alongside her husband, James. Whether traveling abroad or discovering something new close to home, Rebecca embraced every journey with enthusiasm and joy, always looking forward to the next view around the corner. Pastor West is survived by her spouse of 38 years, Pastor James West of Johnstown PA, their loving children Benjamin West (Rebecca) of Bakersville PA, and Adam West (Elizabeth) of Bozeman MT, and her siblings Michael Scholze (Vivian) of Jeannette, PA, Susan Marotta (Joseph) of Greensburg PA, Fred Scholze (Marci) of Tarentum PA and Judy Winslow (Joseph Martin) of Camp Hill PA. She is preceded in death by her parents Mary and James Scholze and her oldest brother Daniel Scholze. Rebecca's compassion, faith and dedication touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her. Viewing will be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM at Moxham Lutheran Church in Johnstown. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the parish through Moxham Lutheran Church or Christ Lutheran Church.  John Henderson Co. Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.hendersonfuneralhome.com

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