Jila Arastouzadeh

7/14/1957 – 12/13/2013

Jila Arastouzadeh passed away December 13, 2013, peacefully in her home surrounded by those who loved her. She was born in Iran, and due to the revolution she moved to Israel and then to Los Angeles. She attended the University of Judaism and founded the Persian Hillel at UCLA. Upon receiving her masters degree, she moved to Santa Barbara to work as a Social Worker at the UCSB Hillel.

After she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1991, she fearlessly charted her own course of healing spanning 22 years. She learned and utilized a wide range of healing modalities, often amazing and inspiring those around her, including the medical doctors and healers with whom she interacted. She was a memorable spirit to all who came in contact with her because of her presence, patience, artistic expression and joyful, giving heart. She had a deep connection with nature and touched and influenced many people in Santa Barbara’s spiritual, art, education, and healing communities.

She is survived by her soulmate Claude Meier, her parents Maryam and Houshang Arastouzadeh, her sisters Jackline Arastouzadeh and Janet and Janet’s husband Christian Sabardine, her niece Sophia and nephew David, and many relatives and friends. What will always be remembered about Jila is her inner strength, intuitive wisdom, kindness, gentle and loving nature, and true compassion for all beings.