Sharda M. Misra

On November 16, 2008 the Misra family lost its most cherished surviving member - Sharda Mani Misra. Mrs. Misra was born in 1924 in a very different world. Born into an occupied British India, the struggles for freedom and self determination would dominate and influence a great deal of her life. She married Krishna Murari Misra when she was 16 . Together they had 8 children, 17 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Well read in major works of world literature and current events she could debate and discuss subjects with ease. A gifted story teller, she could capture the attention of infants to elderly, and naturally anyone in between. Progressive on issues of women's rights, she encouraged her daughters to obtain higher education, herself obtaining a bachelors in Sanskrit after marriage. She entertained and educated her family with stories of her life and times - including many from her experience in British India. A staunch Gandhian, Mrs. Misra gave us a sense of pride and heritage. Her effect is immeasurable, she'll forever be in our hearts and memories. She was staunch and strict, but also protective and inspiring. Her command of language allowed her to teach us valuable lessons by way of humorous zingers and one liners, but also by uplifting, well crafted words. That has served us well in life. She was always proud of the fact that her children and grandchildren have achieved so much around the globe. We take pride in the fact that she was our matriarch. Because of her strength we'll face the fears and challenges of our own lives with a secret confidence that we'll know came from her.

Dearest Ammaji, Nani, Dadi & Pardadi - we are better people because of you and we will miss you dearly.

The family held a private service at Newton Cemetery in Newton, Massachusetts. In lieu of flowers, the family asks a donation be made to a children's charity of your choice.