Barbara Jean McCosh Major

Barbara Jean McCosh Major, a dedicated healer, no-nonsense professional, and cherished sister, passed away recently at her home in the hills of West Tucson. She was 76 years old. At her passing, she was surrounded by her loving husband, Rick Allen, and her two doting dogs.

**A Legacy of Service and Innovation**
Barbara’s academic journey began at UCSD and UC Berkeley before she earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado Boulder and her Master’s degree from the University of Arizona. She became a pillar of the Tucson medical community, specializing in adult neurological and swallowing disorders during her 40-year career at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson and other area hospitals. In her final years, she served bravely in COVID isolation wings, advocating for patient recovery and colleague safety. Her professional milestones included developing mouth-motor software and working with members of the Apache Nation. She also took great pride in training future pathologists as a clinical instructor at the University of Arizona.

**Passions and Personality**
Barbara’s A-frame home in the Sonoran Desert was a shrine to her many passions. She was an avid collector of rocks and minerals and a self-proclaimed family historian. Whether fishing, water skiing, or baking, Barbara approached life with a determined and intelligent spirit, known for her quick wit and legendary homemade salsa.

**Family and Heritage**
Barbara is survived by her devoted husband of 33 years, Rick Allen. She is also survived by her siblings: Pat Simmons, Sandy Leonard, Nancy Langford, and John McCosh, along with numerous beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard E. McCosh and Bonnie E. McCosh.

**Celebration of Life**
A Celebration of Life will be held in Tucson, Arizona, at a date to be announced