Chandra Chakrabarti

We are sad to announce the passing of Chandra Chakrabarti of Braintree, MA on October 19^th, 2022 at the age of 74.  Her loving family was by her side.  

Chandra was born in Kolkata, India on October 1^st 1948.  She was always a top student, and was one of only three women in her engineering class at Jadavpur University.  She excelled in math and science, and even set some records at the university with her great grades.    

As a wife and mother, she was completely selfless, and always put her family’s needs before her own.  Although she worked long hours, she took great pride in keeping the house clean and fridge full of home-cooked Indian food, often already plated to make it as convenient as possible for everyone else.  After becoming a mother, she learned how to ride a bike, swim, and throw and catch a softball, all so she could keep up with her daughter.  

Chandra thrived in her career, while always staying humble about her accomplishments.  Her family was surprised to learn recently that she had worked for the Indian Intelligence agency, but never mentioned, because no one had thought to ask! She worked on numerous healthcare and defense engineering projects during her time at Raytheon and Texas Instruments.  While at Texas Instruments, she was nominated for the prestigious Leadership America program for women leaders across the country.  She finished her career at EMC, where she won an Employee of the Year award.  

Chandra was driven by a desire to help others, and threw herself into volunteering after her retirement.  She worked for MassHealth to help underserved communities get access to health insurance. She also helped to complete tax returns for people at the Braintree Senior Center.  Her family had to tell her to slow down at one point, as she was working too hard in retirement! 

She was blessed with her grandson Kai later in life, to whom she was deeply devoted. He adored spending time with his “Dida” and getting her undivided attention.  They loved creating imaginary games only they understood using whatever was at hand, including flashlights, exercise balls, ping pong balls, and pool sticks. He’d jump on the bed for hours while they laughed and laughed, then finish the day with a nice cuddle and movie.    

She was an amazing friend, and great listener.  Those who knew her best say she didn’t have a mean bone in her body.  She wasn’t one to gossip, and always looked for the best in everyone.  Her family and friends will miss her caring nature, sweet smile, and sense of humor.  

Chandra is survived by her husband of 44 years Syamal Chakrabarti, her daughter Akhar, son in law Jacob Mathews, beloved grandson Kai, beloved granddog Yogi, and numerous friends and relatives.  Her family was all very proud of her.    She was predeceased by her parents Bimala and Ajit Ganguly, and in-laws Bhabani and Tarapada Chakrabarti. 

A public service will be held Monday October 24th starting at 1030AM in the McDonald-Keohane funeral home at 809 Main St in South Weymouth, MA, with visitation afterwards until noon. A private cremation ceremony will follow.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider donating to a Parkinson’s charity, or a favorite charity of your choice, in her name.