Alicia (Alice) Cornejo Contreras, born May 18, 1932 in Lompoc, CA, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loved ones on October 22, 2015.

Born to Jose Anaya Cornejo and Maria Martinez Cornejo, Alice was one of eight siblings: Joe, Cora, Carmen, Rosie, Ruben, Betty and Gilbert. Jose and Maria, originally from Jalisco, Mexico, moved to San Bernardino where Jose found employment with the Railroad companies. They later settled in Lompoc where Jose was offered a position with Johns-Manville.

It was in this neighborhood where Alice first met the love of her life, Benny Jasso Contreras. Although just teenagers when they met, upon Benny's return from the Army, they fell in love and began their lifelong love affair. They wed on October 4, 1949 in Reno, Nevada. Benny fondly recalls this day as the one where Alice made him "The happiest man alive".

Having always wanting a family, Benny and Alice welcomed three loving children, Benny Contreras Jr., Danny J. Contreras and Christina M. Contreras-Pfau. Alice had previously worked at Woolworth's but after her children were born she stayed home to care for them. Born and raised in the church, the children attended a Catholic School and remember their mother always making sure their homework was completed as she emphasized the importance of their education. Alice was a wonderful cook, whipping up family favorites like Nopales and Camarones. And it was well known that she loved her sweets, whenever possible she would sneak a little dessert before dinner.

Alice was the life of the party, she loved music and singing and a favorite pastime of hers was dancing to "Sobor A Mi" with her favorite dancing partner, Benny. In their early years the family would often host at their home and the kids remember the music and laughs going late into the evening hours. The children think back fondly to their numerous Disneyland trips and their annual summer trips to Yosemite, Alice loved traveling and being outdoors.

Alice and Benny have 9 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren, all who will never forget their Grandma who always had a welcoming hug and loving smile for the children and grandchildren. Her laughter will forever be embedded in their hearts.

The family would like to thank Dr. Cory Gusland and Dia for many years of excellent medical care, the Staff of Dignity Health Hospice who were all so supportive of the family, we extend our gratitude. Brenda, Lina and Blanca we thank you for your tender care, and special thanks to our dear Maria for many years of love and support for Alice and the family.

Alice, we will miss your joyous spirit and ever present beautiful smile.

The visitation will be Wednesday, October 28, 2015, from 5 to 7:30 pm with the evening vigil at 6 pm in the chapel of the Starbuck-Lind Mortuary. Father Tom Cook will celebrate the mass of Christian burial on Thursday, October 10, at 10 am at La Purisima Catholic Church. Interment will follow in the Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery.