It is with profound sorrow that I announce the passing of my mother, Nuzhat Subhani, at the age of 80. Her life was a tapestry of bravery, fascination, and boundless love. Her loss is the most significant I have ever experienced, leaving an irreplaceable void in my heart.

From the moment of my birth, my mother made me feel extraordinarily loved. She was not just a mother but my greatest champion, confidante, and dearest friend. Her love enveloped me, providing a sense of security and warmth that shaped my entire life. Every day, she made me feel special and cherished. Her unwavering support and belief in me gave me the strength to face any challenge. Her love was a constant, a beacon of light guiding me through life's ups and downs. 

Born in India, my mother's life was shaped by two pivotal migrations: first, during the 1947 partition to Pakistan, and later, in 1981, when our family sought political asylum in the United States. Each time, she faced the challenge of rebuilding her life from scratch, embodying resilience and maintaining an unwavering positive outlook.

Her passions were as diverse as they were profound. After her family, travel was her greatest love. Her adventures spanned continents, taking her from the Great Wall of China to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and many places in between. She explored most of the United States, with Alaska holding a special place in her heart. Her curiosity and courage knew no bounds; she was always eager to experience the wonders of the world firsthand. She delighted in meeting and befriending people from around the world, embracing their religions and traditions with an open heart.

My mother's talents were manifold. She was a culinary virtuoso, mastering cuisines from around the globe. Her creativity extended to sewing, quilting, knitting, and painting. Yet, her most remarkable gift was her ability to make everyone feel valued and remembered. Her gift for making others feel cherished extended beyond our family to friends and even casual acquaintances. She kept birthdays and anniversaries of loved ones etched in her memory, reaching out with genuine warmth on special occasions. 

To my girls, she was the only grandparent they ever knew, filling that role with unparalleled love and dedication. Her support for us was unwavering, and our bond was unbreakable. Living together for most of our lives, we shared a connection that transcended the ordinary.

As I grapple with this immeasurable loss, I find solace in the rich tapestry of her life—woven with threads of love, adventure, art, curiosity, and cherished relationships. Her legacy of love and her indomitable spirit will forever inspire and guide me.

She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and a second mom to many. 

Rest in peace, Mama. Your love will remain an eternal flame in my heart.