Saroj Jashbhai Patel

She was the widow of Jashbhai Patel and is survived by her four children: Bharti (Lalit), Jawahar, Krishna (Dilip), Subhash (Marlynn); seven grandchildren: Rahul (Sheetal), Reena (Samit), Kritika, Seema (Tejas), Kavita (Daxter), Vishal, Mallika; and four great-grandchildren.

Sarojben was born in Anand, India to Ishverbhai and Maniben Patel. The eldest of four siblings, she worked with her family to care for their farm. Following her marriage to Jashbhai, she moved to Moshi, Tanzania to raise their family. Passionate about education although she was never able to complete her own, she was a staunch advocate for both her sons and daughters achieving academic excellence. Later in life, she moved to America where she settled down with family in Germantown Hills. There she enjoyed raising her grandchildren and watched proudly as they all grew into accomplished young adults.

Sarojben was a pillar of her family who integrated the traditions of Gujarati culture into their lives no matter where they were living. An incredible cook, she always remembered everyone’s likes and dislikes and enjoyed nothing more than spoiling her family with their favorite foods. She loved her dhal, bhaat, shak, rotli, but on occasion appreciated pizza, french fries, and strawberry ice cream too. She had a knack for gardening, as evidenced by the multiple limbdi plants she propagated over the years. Sarojben had a beautiful smile and infectious laugh that none of her family or friends will ever forget. She enjoyed sitting in the sun with her family and sharing stories. Her warm and nurturing nature were evident to anyone who was around her. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, friend, and auntie, and her presence will be greatly missed by all.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, September 19,2023 at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel, 2021 North University Street, Peoria, IL followed by a cremation at 12:00 PM.