Just now I opened an e-mail from Julie Ford, sharing this sad news about Charmaine, who was a vital, bright light to the Oneonta, NY community when she and Krish were students there.  I was privileged to know the Pillays, who deepened my awareness of apartheid in South Africa, and were leaders in the community of students, staff and faculty who demonstrated on behalf of human rights in South Africa.

I regret that I had lost track of the Pillay family, but you have always been alive in my memories.  In this painful loss I hope that we might re-connect.  Charmaine was a charming, bright, and dedicated soul--willing to work and serve without recompense.  My heart goes out to Krish and all of Charmaine's family, who have lost a wonderful woman.  We will never lose her in our hearts, and allow her to inspire us to be our best selves as we give thanks for her life and example.



It was over 40 years ago that I met Charmaine at college and we quickly became friends.  What a blessing it was to have known her!  Charmaine was a bright, shining light who brought out the best in everyone.  Her laughter, joy, and zest for life were infectious.  Thank you, Charmaine, for all the adventures and wonderful times that we shared; and most of all for your love and friendship. You will remain in my heart forever.  My deepest condolences and prayers  to  Krish, Lara, Kyle,  Chantal and the family.
         Love to all- Julie and family


   

I remember when Thiru and I came to Atlanta a few times.. What fun we used have. When Kieth was there it was even better.  It's   memories like that which create a bond I have with your family..  Please be well and I hope to see you all soon.



Our sincere condolences to our uncle Keeka and cousins Lara, Chantal and Kyle on the tragic loss of Charmaine.  We pray God's comfort over the family during this sad time . We have  fond memories of Charmaine's visit to us in Westbrook  SA. My father and brothers will watch over her in the heavens above.  Love from Jeevie, Logie aunt Baby and their respective families😢


Our sincere condolences to Uncle Krish, Keith, Rodney and Wendy and to her beautiful children. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. 

We share your loss and we know she leaves a legacy behind. All her photos show her beautiful smile, love radiates from her. She is definitely gone to be with angels. She is now our "guardian angel" 

May God comfort you during this time. 

Sending loads of love from SA. 
( Mel, Rajan, Alessia, Tia, Cheryl, Bradley and family, Ingrid and family) 



Our sympathies and prayers go out to krish,Keith,Rodney,Lara ,Chantal ,Kyle,Meera,Eileen and the family. We have fond memories of Charmaine every visit to S.A. Charmaine was a kind,loving and bubbly person that always made every occasion with her exciting.
Heaven has gained a angel 👼
We pray gods peace and calm be upon you all during this difficult time of loss.🙏🙏🙏
Love,Segran,Ursula, shantal Shanice,Shezel, Evesan, Yvonne, Dan and Estelle 

Our sympathies and prayers are with Krish,Keith,Rodney, Meera and the family.We all from S.A have such fond memories of Charmaine .She was a kind,loving,caring and bubbly person that made every occasion in S.A enjoyable with her around.
Heaven has gained a angel👼
We pray Gods peace and calm be upon,krish ,Keith, Rodney,Meera,Eileen,Lara,Chantal and the grandkids. 🙏
Love from Segran,Ursula,Shezel,Shanice, Shantal, Evesan ,Yvonne,Dan and Estelle

The memories of Charmaine and her family that I hold in my heart will always be precious to me. I’m remembering all the wonderful times we shared, especially at parties with lively conversation, wonderful food, and joyous music. A special memory of our small group of close friends sharing a “women’s weekend” at Gilbert Lake State Park near Oneonta NY is pictured here. My sincere condolences to Krish, Lara, Kyle, and Chantal. May the joy Charmaine brought to so many lives she touched remain in your hearts forever.
Cynthia David



To Special Aunt,

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure ❤️❤️❤️
Rest in peace beautiful aunt, our prayers and thoughts are with the Pillay family.
God bless. 

Love Shantal and family 


One evening over 20 years ago, Khrish & Charmaine invited my husband and I, over to her house, to play cards with some of her other friends.  Ken and Linda Davis were there. When I saw her the next day, I ask her, if she invited us over, to show us, she had black friends. Chamaine, of course let me know that they had been friends, since there kids were very young, and I was prejudiced. We fought that night until we couldn't drink any more. We grew on each other after that.  I found someone who stood up for what they believed and didn't back down from a fight. Even when she was slipping away, she and I were still planning trips, for when the virus is over.  It's going to be very hard to see Khrish with out you. You put up a good fight my friend.  Now you can rest in peace, no more pain.

I've met Charmaine late, in 2015, in Talahassee, in their temporary house, I was just startled how beautiful and hospitable she was! And when we've met later I felt her zest for life, even being seriously ill, she still partyed with everyone sharing her love and energy. I regret so much I won't see her again, she was like a flower which attracts all bees, her charisma was amazing and still acts...
My deepest sympathy and love to Krish, Kyle, Lara, Chantal and the family during this hard and sad time.
Rest in peace dear Charmaine

There are so many fond memories we have our dear Charmaine, I could write a book and it would be a never ending story of fun, laughter, happiness, family, good times and I could go on.

The family in SA has felt her loss across the ocean which just shows you how she is loved and missed. This sudden and shock loss will leave a massive void in our family and to all those that know her. We have been blessed to have spent time with an amazing soul and until we see her again.

May her soul rest in peace.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Krish, Keith, Rodney, Wendy Lara, Kyle & Chantal as well was the rest of the family overseas and at home in SA during this difficult time.

We love and miss her so much.

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 147:3

Lots of love 

Gloria Richards & Family 
(Gloria, Ralvin, Wayne, Melissa, Shanti & Aurian)
South Africa


Charmaine was most certainly a strong leader for human rights.  Charmaine broke barriers and provided support for individuals who were unable to advocate for themselves.  She set the bar high and those expectations linger.  Charmaine's smile will forever warm my heart and thoughts of her will transcend time.  I send my warmest condolences to Charmaine's family with thoughts and prayers for peace and courage.

I have many fond memories of Charmaine, she was always full of energy, fun & adventure, she had a real zest for life, the life of the party🤣 I was 7 when she took me & Rodney out to Berg street swimming pool for our 1st swimming lessons🤣, many more ventures followed🤣, Thank you for standing up for us when we got into trouble 😀, loved those green mangoes with chilliepowder & salt she introduced me to, will miss my Thunny partner, you are for ever in my heart & mind Charmaine, may God keep you in his arms in eternal heavenly peace & rest dear cousin, Love Con😥😘💐

Do not fear, for I am with you do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with my, righteous right hand( Isaiah 41:10)

God of comfort and giver of life may your word bring strength and peace to Krish Lara Chantal Kyle Keith Eileen Rodney Meera Wendy grand children Aunties  Ethel Gloria Uncle  Wesley and cousins for the loss of  a loving wife mum sister and niece in Charmaine..
Dry all their tears, comfort their sorrowful hearts and be their refuge and strength.
We were deeply saddened with the news of Charmaine  going home to the Lord. The pain and void you feel  only God will understand. 
We treasure beautiful memories  of   Charmaine that will continue to linger in our hearts. Her lovely smile  caring  words yet always stood for what was right  in the midst of strong opposition  will remain in our memories.
 May you take assurance in the hope  of the eternal love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ the living God who rose from the dead as the first fruit of them that shall live forever. 
Good night  Charmaine
We will see you on that Resurrection morning
Love Coleen Clyde Audrey and Alyssa kenan
Ashwin  Michelle Kael Asher and Isabella. 


My deepest  sympathy  to Krish and the Family  on Charmaine's  passing.  We share in your loss  of a dear wife,  mum, grandmother  and sister and close friend.  
My name is  Siva Naidoo ( now resident  if New Zealand) , who was Charmaine's  form and Mathematics  teacher in Standard  9 at Woodlands  high  school in Pietermaritzburg,  South Africa. Charmaine  was a class monitor  and always  a cheerful  and friendly  student.  I reminded  her that he late dad ,Horace and mum, Mercy taught  me in primary  school at the Methodist  mission  school.  Charmaine  hails  from a very Prominent  and respected  family,  The Lawrences of Pietermaritzburg. 
To the grieving  Family,  may Almighty  God  comfort  and strengthen  you at this sad time.** (In the attached  school class photo, Charmaine  is 2nd to the right of me, the teacher in the front row). REST IN PEACE!

As the years have flown by and we go in different directions our treasured memories are always there. Charmaine was  a true light, compassionate and full of laughter and joy. Memories of our long time friendship means we were heart sisters.  Charmaine filled our lives with hope and love.   Our deepest condolences to Krish, Lara, Kyle and Chantal  and their families.   May Charmaine always remain in our hearts.
    Love - Linda, Luke & Joseph

My dear cousin. I just remember your beauty and kindness. My parents (uncle G and my mum (aunty baby) could not afford to buy clothes for me and so your mum would give me your clothes cause we were the same age. I adored those clothes. I last saw u and ur brothers at ur mum's funeral. It was such a blessing to spend time with u all. My condolences to all the family. God give u all the strength during this sad time. Love to all. Theresa.

I met Charmaine as a young girl some 40 years ago  and formed a bond with her that has lasted ever since.  I looked up to her, she was my role model. So grateful to have had her in my life. Will  always be remembered with immense love and respect ❤️
We will miss her terribly. 

Keeks, Lara, Kyle, Chantal and family - love and strength to you during this difficult time. 

Dearest Krish and family
We share in this time of grief over the loss of Charmaine
Saying goodbye to someone we love is heartbreaking. We wish you all find comfort in all the special memories shared with Charmaine
Words cannot express our sadness. I hope that all your loving memories ease your loss and bring you comfort.
Our sincerest condolences 
Nimmie and Kum Cooper

Dear Krish and Family, It is with deep regret that we hear of the passing away of Charmaine.  I would like to express our deepest sympathies to you and your children. May the good Lord grant you all the strength and courage to cope with your loss. 
Charmaine was a champion for human rights and fought for the rights of the under most vunerable people in the community. 
She has fought her battle and she is now resting in the arms of our creator. May her soul rest in peace.
Best Regards from Colin Kader, Fazila, Ridwaan, Nazeera, Riaz and Adilla Kader.


From LATE UNCLE GEE ( PAUL) & FAMILY. RIP CUZ CHARMAINE! With a Sore Heart, We bid You Farewell. We hold on to Fond Childhood Memories. With Your FUN - Loving Characteristics, We ALMOST, Always got into trouble! You ALWAYS, Convincingly protected Our tracks.Thank You For Always spending time with Us when on holiday in South Africa. Those were times to reckon with! If We had just one Wish, It Will be just One More Party with You in South Africa!  Our Condolences to Krish, Keith, Rodney, Wendy and Families! Not forgetting the heartache My Aunt Ethel, and Gloria and Uncle Wesley are enduring to live to Watch Their Gorgeous and Fun-loving Niece, Slip Away! We Will love You FOREVER CHARMAINE! LOVE JOYCE AND MY SIBLINGS! 🙏 💞 🌹

Dearest Krish, Lara, Kyle, Chantal, Beau, Keith, Rodney, Meera, Wendy and families.
Our heart goes out to you during this time of grief and sorrow. 
We too share in your pain and loss of our beautiful and beloved Charmaine.
Someone so special can never be forgotten.
We have a lifetime of wonderful memories of Charmaine.
Reminiscing about her always brings a smile to our face…
A beautiful smile, quick witted, loving, caring, generous and passionate. 
Always remembered and in our hearts forever.  

With all our love and deepest condolences 
Noeleen, Alan, Vash, Donaven, Darryl and Rylan.


I loved working with Charmaine at Qlarant and I so admired her passion and commitment to making the world a better place for everyone she met. Her memory is a blessing I will keep close.  I hope her family finds a place of peace in the days ahead 💕

RIP beautiful Charmaine💔🙏🌹I loved ur  bubbly, easy going and relaxed personality.❤I remember the one night u guys came over  and we had a game of cards....what an enjoyable evening it was!Thank u for being there for Rodney ,my sister Meera and the our nephews ,Darian and Keaton🤗My deepest sympathies to Krish,Chantal,Lara,Kyle Keith,Rodney,Wendy and their families🙏🌷Love Kenny and Niree 

I had the pleasure of being introduced to dear Charmaine by my cousin Keeka (aka Krish) in the 1970's. We became good buddies over the years. She was a loving & caring person. Not forgetting her bubbly & entertaining personality.
I spent my College holidays with Keeka & Charmaine when I was studying in the USA in the late 70's & 80's. I was there when Lara, Kyle & Chantal were babies. I saw them grow from cute babies to good disciplined children. And now wonderful & loving adults. Charmaine and Keeka were amazing parents.  Keeka and Charmaine loved each other so much.  Words can't express my love & admiration for Charmaine. Writing this memory brings tears to my eyes. I will miss you very much Charmaine. RIP
Love, Dayalan🙏💖

I find it very hard to find the right thing to say at such a time as this. Having to say goodbye to my beautiful friend feels so very unfair,  scary and wrong. When we played cards and Krish and Ken would on the rare occasion beat us I would always snatch the paper we were keeping score on and rip it up and we would laugh so hard.....my selfish way of fixing it. Lord I wish I could fix this! Just know my friend...if my love for you could keep you alive, you would have lived forever 💔💔💔

Heaven gained an angel but you were taken away too soon.We will cherish the good memories of you .Your spirit will remain in our hearts always .Rest in peace sweet ,beautiful Charm a treasured sister ,sister in law and aunt.
Till we meet again.

My deepest condolences for the loss of Aunty Charmaine, I’m thinking of you all in this difficult time. Such wonderful Memories from east coast of Africa to the east coast of
America. She’ll be remembered with love.

Thinking of you all 

Please know that warm thoughts and sympathy are with the family! I met Charmaine through John and Mildred Miller and was Blessed to have join her and her husband on a Cruise and several other trips!  We were truly Blessed to have spent pleasant times with her!  She will be missed! Les and Bernice Parker of Orange Park, FL. 

To the Pillay Family,

We remember mum with a cheerful smile and  her warm and kind hospitality when we were visiting from South Africa. She prepared the most divine meals which we thoroughly enjoyed being away from home for almost a month.  We cherish the time we spent together. Kanaga Naidu & Family

Visitation

Funeral Service

Graveside Service

Survivors include her husband, Krish Pillay; children, Lara Kontakos, Kyle Pillay and Chantal (Beau Garbett); grandchildren, Gabriel Kontakos, Johannes Kontakos, Josiah Kontakos and Suraya Garbett; siblings, Keith (Eileen) Lawrence, Rodney (Meera) Lawrence and Wendy Lawrence. She was preceded in death by her father and mother.

OBITUARY

Charmaine Belinda Pillay

November 30, 1957 – August 31, 2020

Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens

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