Obituary of Manorama Sharma

Manorama Sharma

Manorama (Mano) Sharma (nee Vyas), age 80, of Boonton Township, New Jersey passed on September 21, 2024 in the comfort of her loving family.

Manorama was born to Nagendra and Indra Kala Vyas in Indore, India on August 26, 1944. She grew up in several communities in the Indian state of Madya Pradesh as her father was a lawyer for state government, which brought Mano and her family to various posts throughout her childhood. She enjoyed sharing memories of summers spent with her maternal grandparents at their home in North Central India, and spoke fondly of her time there; even on her last birthday celebration just a few weeks ago. As a young girl she loved athletics, and participated in various sports throughout her early years. Later, Mano developed an appreciation for art, a passion for cooking, and a great love of dance. Mano attended the Balvinay Mandir School in Indore, India followed by studies at the university in Indore, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree. She spoke often and fondly about her favorite memories of sitting under a shady tree at college in the afternoons, sharing snacks, laughter and endless stories with her friends. It was her most favorite thing to do. Soon after college, Mano met her beloved husband, Raj. They married in India and enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of 58 years.

Mano started her career as a science lab technician in the United Kingdom. In her 20’s she and Raj moved to the United States where they resided for over 51 years. She spent almost 30 years in the retail business before retiring in order to take care of her two adoring grandchildren, Kiran and Lily, full-time. Her dedication to being an integral part of her grandchildren’s lives created a remarkable bond between them; each extraordinarily unique and special.

Mano was a devoted wife, mother, “dadi”, sister, auntie and friend. She was a gentle, kind and generous light in the world that could easily brighten a room, and bring a smile to everyone’s face - especially with her delicious cooking, delightful stories and genuine interest in all that had the good fortune of spending time with her. She loved to experience the world and traveled extensively. Her love of food, her intoxicating laughter, easy conversation and authentically warm connections with friends, family, and even strangers, created lasting memories for so many. She particularly loved hosting the Hindu holidays of Diwali and Raki, where she welcomed so many into her home with warmth, great anticipation, and excitement for these celebrations. The generous hospitality that Mano extended began as a simple sharing of snacks with friends under shady trees while studying at university, and grew into wide reaching arms that welcomed so many into the beautiful home that she created. A home where everyone felt accepted, comforted and loved. The radiant light that she exuded, selflessly, has forever left an imprint that her loved ones will carry with them, always.

Manorama is survived by her loving husband Rajkumar Sharma; their only son, and the light of her life, Pankaj; her devoted and adored grandchildren Kiran and Lily; her brother Shiv Vyas and his wife Sarla Vyas; her sister in-law Nisha Vyas; her nieces Tanu and Charu Vyas, and Shivani Vyas and her husband Sunny Dattani; and her nephews Hemanshu Vyas, and his wife Hayley Vyas; and Bharat Vyas. Mano was pre-deceased by her father Nagendra Vyas, mother Indra Kala Vyas, and her brothers Mahesh and Ramesh Vyas.

Friends may visit with the family at Rosedale Chapel, 408 Orange Road in Montclair, New Jersey on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, from 9 am to 12pm for a viewing and Hindu service.

A traditional Hindu cremation ceremony will follow for immediate family members.

In lieu of flowers donations to The American Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated