Rupammal Naidu's Obituary
Rupammal Naidu was born on August 22, 1945, in Nadi, Fiji, to Shanmugam and Lakshmi Gounder. She was the eldest of six children and from an early age embodied strength, responsibility, and devotion to family.
On January 29, 2026, Rupammal peacefully entered into God's presence, surrounded by the legacy of a life well lived. On May 3, 1969, Rupammal married the love of her life, Madhavan Naidu. From this union were born their two children, Balavena "Val" Lucas and Bernard "Ben" Naidu.
In 1975, the family courageously migrated to the United States in pursuit of opportunity and a better future. They eventually settled in Oakland, California, where they purchased their first home and laid deep roots. The family proudly became American citizens on December 15, 1981.
Rupammal was a tireless worker and a woman of remarkable determination. She began her career as a nurse's aide alongside her longtime friend, Mrs. Swan. Later, she and her husband worked together at Brockway Glass Company until the factory closed. Never one to stop moving forward, Rupammal returned to school to train as an administrative assistant, which led to a meaningful career serving nonprofit organizations for the remainder of her working years.
At times, she held two jobs to ensure her children could attend private school, always placing her family's future above her own comfort. She was known for her radiant smile and gentle spirit, one that could instantly warm any heart. Rupammal loved to crochet and generously gifted handmade blankets to family and friends.
She valued health and fitness and was affectionately known at the gym as "Mom," alongside her beloved "Pop," where they formed lasting friendships. She cherished traveling, especially cruises, which she enjoyed side by side with her husband. Rupammal's memory was famously sharp. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary and delighted in reaching out to loved ones on their special days.
A God-fearing woman, she began each day reading her Bible and lived her faith with quiet consistency. She was a devoted member of Amos Temple and faithfully received monthly communion from the residing pastor, Rev. Dr. Reginald Walton. Above all, Rupammal lived for her family.
She treasured time spent with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Even as her mobility slowed, her spirit never did and she stayed connected through heartfelt text messages, phone calls, and joyful participation in family gatherings. A gifted and loving cook, Rupammal ensured that no one ever left her home hungry.
Her signature crab curry was legendary, and those who were fortunate enough to enjoy it considered themselves truly blessed. This cherished Christmas tradition was later passed down to her son, Bernard. Rupammal leaves behind to cherish her memory her beloved husband of 57 years, Madhavan Naidu; her daughter, Balavena Lucas; her son, Bernard Naidu; her son- and daughter-in-law, Danny and Monique; her treasured grandchildren, William, Julian and wife- Grecia, Nisha, Bee, Josiah, and Jayden; and her adored great-grandchildren, Elias, Mazikeen, and Dorian, with another great-grandchild, Ezekiel, expected to be born later this year.
She also leaves behind countless extended family members and dear friends whose lives were forever touched by her love, kindness, and unwavering devotion. Rupammal Naidu's legacy lives on through the generations she nurtured, the sacrifices she made, and the love she so freely gave. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
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