Rajesh Madan Puri

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rajesh Madan Puri, who peacefully left us on January 27, 2025, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of love and selflessness. Born on February 9, 1942, in New Delhi, India, to Anand and Janak Madan, Rajesh was the beloved eldest of eight siblings—brothers Sudhir, Sunil, and Sanjeev, and sisters Savita, Veena, Suneeta, and Priya, and the adored niece of Dharam Swarup Madan. Rajesh started her education in Delhi and Calcutta before coming to the United States in 1963 to complete her studies. She arrived a fiercely independent and playfully adventurous young woman. She was an artist, chef, and world traveller, and embraced new experiences and friendships with openness and warmth. As a dietician, she dedicated her career to caring for children with special needs, most notably at the Elizabeth Levinson Center in Bangor, ME, as well as at Eastern Maine Medical Center where she helped patients with cancer, head trauma, eating disorders, spina bifida, and more. Her work was not just a profession but a reflection of her deep compassion and commitment to the well-being of others. Rajesh led with her heart in every aspect of her life. She was extraordinarily selfless, a woman whose kindness and warmth left an indelible impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Whether in her role as a dietician, sister, daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, or friend, she gave without hesitation, embodying the very essence of generosity. Beyond her professional work, Rajesh extended her care to the wider community, often volunteering at the local food pantry. Her dedication to the people around her was a testament to her boundless compassion. She believed in lifting others up and lived her life in service, always putting the needs of others before her own. Above all, nothing brought Rajesh greater joy than connecting with those around her, most importantly her family and grandchildren. She found immense happiness in their laughter and their everyday moments. She was a constant source of love, creating a home filled with warmth. Her presence was a gift, and her legacy will live on in the lives she touched. For the past four years, Rajesh lived in Pleasantville, NY, with her daughter Anjali and her family, surrounded by love and companionship. Rajesh is survived by her devoted husband, Kewal Puri; her beloved children, Rajeev, Monica, and Anjali; and her nine cherished grandchildren: Maya, Nikian, Nehla, Aria, Krishan, Alina, Alisha, Devin, and Niam. She also leaves behind six siblings and many extended family members and dear friends. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, February 2nd, from 10 AM to 12 PM at Dwyer & Michaels Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations in Rajesh’s memory be made to Habitat for Humanity or World Central Kitchen, two organizations that reflect her lifelong commitment to helping others. Rajesh’s memory will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

Rajesh Madan Puri

February 9, 1942 - January 27, 2025