Community leader and prominent Rotarian Sarla Alwani passed away March 18 in Miami, Fla.
Gov. John deJongh Jr. said Monday, "The people of the Virgin Islands join me in extending profound sympathies to Sarla’s husband, Mulo Alwani, and their children, Papita and Vinod, as well as to the extended Alwani family.
"Mrs. Alwani was an integral part of the Virgin Islands community," deJongh said, "and she will forever be remembered for her grace and compassion."
Pash Daswani, India Association acting president and longtime friend of the family, echoed the governor’s words Monday. "Her grace and compassion is what I will remember her for."
Rotary International official Diana White remembered Alwani with the same sentiments. "She was a very gracious lady, always smiling … open and kind to everyone she came across. She was an incredible family person. I know she spent lots of time with her grandchildren," White said.
"We were Rotary Inner Wheel presidents the same year, 1990-1991," White said. "She and her husband, Mulo, have been incredibly supportive Rotary members through the years."
DeJongh said in his statement, "Our prayers are with the family of Sarla Alwani during this difficult time. May their cherished memories be a source of solace and comfort during this period of bereavement."
The governor said funeral services are being held this week in Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Radha Soami Center of St. Thomas or the American Cancer Society.