I’m very sorry to hear about Shakti’s passing. I have fond memories of slumber parties when we were teens, New Year’s Eve parties and general fun. Though it’s been some time since I’ve seen her, I’ve never forgotten her kindness, love of singing and dancing, spirituality, beauty and enormous dedication and love for Sam and the kids. 
Condolences, hugs and love to Lata aunty, Kavita, Sam and the children and to all who share in the grief. 💐 Nisha

Thank You for Honoring Shakti

To everyone who attended Shakti’s funeral — thank you. Although I was too overcome with grief to speak, please know how deeply grateful we are for your presence and the beautiful memories you shared.

Each story, each connection, reminded us of the incredible impact Shakti had on so many lives. She was the sister I never had but always wanted — perfect in every way. Your words brought comfort to our family and helped us feel her spirit in the love that surrounded us.

While our hearts are heavy, we were truly moved by the overwhelming support shown during her service. Thank you for standing with us, for remembering her, and for celebrating the life of someone so special.

With love and gratitude,
Sheetal (Sam's sister)

*Honoring Shakti Dalal*
*By Sapan*

Remembering Shakti Dalal—a woman whose name means strength, and who lived with grace, joy, and fierce love.

Shakti and I shared a special bond. We both loved fitness, but once a year, I broke all my rules for her carrot cake. I’d skip dessert all year just to savor that one slice—then five. It wasn’t just delicious—it was her way of saying, *“I see you. I care about you.”* Like her, that cake was unforgettable.

If you ever needed proof Shakti was superhuman, just look at her chemo schedule. She’d go in for treatment early in the week and, by the weekend, be doing burpees, deadlifts, and CrossFit that made the rest of us look like amateurs. Who finishes chemo and says, “Let’s do squats until we cry”? That was Shakti—she didn’t just bounce back; she soared.

In between, she was planning family events, caring for her kids, keeping Sam on track, and still asking how *we* were doing.

During her illness, I witnessed my brother’s quiet strength—by her side through every hospital stay, every setback, every moment of fear. I once glimpsed him crying alone in the hospital bathroom, and that image broke me. Yet he always walked back out to comfort Shakti and the kids. That’s love—not the movie kind, but the kind that holds you together when everything else is falling apart.

Shakti gave my brother that love. Together they raised three amazing children—Niko, Dilan, and Laila. Her legacy lives on in them.

Shakti, thank you—for the laughter, the love, the carrot cake, and the memories. Thank you for your courage, your joy, and your boundless heart.

Wherever you are now, I hope you’re resting, workouts optional, baking carrot cake for the angels—no calorie counting required.

You may have left this world, but you haven’t left us. We’ll carry you forward—with gratitude, reverence, and love.

Rest well, Shakti. You’ll always

My deepest condolences and love to Kavita, Auntie, Sam, Niko, Dilan, and Laila. I will always cherish the memories of teaching leadership with Shakti, dancing Garba at her wedding, and seeing the joy and love with which Shakti and Sam raised a beautiful family.

May she rest in peace. 

Prayers and love,
Aditi Hazra and family

It’s hard to understand why people are taken from us , but find comfort in knowing you all were a special part of such a beloved life. Our heart aches for the entire family & you are all in our thoughts and prayers every step of the way. 

Raju & Showri Nandagiri

Dear Latha, Kavitha , Sam and family
Shakti - she embodied her name - so much power packed in. She took up cheerleading and did well , she did so much Seva - both in her career and her life. 
Her Shakti will give you all and us to carry on 
Om Shanthi ! 
RamaRamanadhan and family

Our condolences to Sam and his family, we will pray that her soul rests in peace in Heaven 
Pk & Ila shah

I first saw Shakti  when she was a toddler.  She grew up into a very loving and affectionate  person.  We always looked forward  to her Christmas  cards because  that's  how she would keep in touch  despite the  distance. It is cruel that she had to go so soon.The last time I saw her she made banana bread for me and I still remember  the taste vividly. Sam, Niko, Dilan, Laila, Lata manni  and Kavita, we are all with you praying for you all.

Shakti was a force of nature - she did everything with passion and grace. I was lucky to grow up with her as part of our Houston family. When she was in your presence, life felt sparkling and fun, and you could sense how deeply she loved and was loved. 

I’m grateful for the time I got to spend with her, and I’m sending all my love to Kavita, Lata Aunty, Sam, Niko, Dilan and Laila.

Love,
Janani

Little but fierce, always. Love you my friend.

My gym warrior!  The halls of our fitness space are hollow in your absence. But the memories we share will live long and strong like you.

Dear Latha and family,

With deep sorrow Usha and I write this message to you regarding Shakti’s untimely passing. We knew her from very young age. Her smiley face and impressive personality will always be in our memory. 
Please accept our heartfelt condolences and with no words we can console you on this unbelievable loss. We pray God to give you enough strength to endure this difficult period.

Usha & Ramji Raman

A Memoir for Shakti – My Sister, My Friend

Some names carry more than just syllables. Shakti—a name that means power, energy, divine feminine force—was not just a name for you. It was who you were, every day, in every way.
You were the heart of so many moments in every one’s life more than a sister, more than a friend. 
Shakti, you had this gift of presence. 
I clearly remember the first time you walked in with Sam for Rohit’s 1st birthday, came up to me and requested if you could hold him with so much love. You didn’t let go of him. It was truly a pleasure to then see you grow into raising a beautiful family of your own with wonderful kids: Niko, Dilan and Laila that are all representations of love like you. 
You didn’t have to say much but you made people feel seen, held, valued. You made me feel that way more times than I can count, whether it was making me a bridesmaid in your wedding or encouraging me in my fitness journey, you have always been a motivational force for me. Those are memories I hold like treasures now. The way you stood up for what was right, without fear. The way you carried your pain with grace, and your love like a torch that never dimmed.
Losing you there’s  an ache that lives in my chest now, shaped exactly like you. But if grief is love with no place to go, then I’ll let it live in me. I’ll let it become how I speak your name, how I remember your laughter, how I pass on the love you gave so freely.
You taught me strength—real strength. The kind that holds others up even when you’re barely standing. You were Shakti in every sense: power, compassion, resilience, light.

Thank you for being my sister, my friend in this life. I carry you with me, always.
I love you, Shakti. Always and forever.

There are no words that can truly capture the sorrow of losing Shakti. 
Shakti truly lived up to her name , strong , endlessly courageous, through her journey. 
In the face of unimaginable challenges , the way she faced each one , is an inspiration for everyone who knew her.
Our hearts are heavy .
At this deeply painful time , our thoughts and prayers are with Sam , Latha , Kavita and the beautiful children she left behind ..
Prema and Chandar

My deepest condolences to you and your family. I have very found memories during our high school years. She was very talented and always kind. May she rest in peace.🙏🏼

I met Shakti in Houston while working at Duchesne Academy.  She was a joy to be around.  She loved her students and was a talented dance teacher.  

I still struggle to understand why she was called home so early but will cherish the time I had with her. 

May the Lord bring comfort to Sam, her beautiful children and family over time.   Dance with the angels sweet Shakti❤️

I am so heartbroken to see the passing of Mrs. Murthy/Dalal. Mrs. Murthy was my 9th grade Biology teacher at Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart and she made a huge impact on my life. Biology was my favorite subject that year, and I remember we were her first class to teach! She was such a fun, young, and gentle teacher. I remember making our cell models and learning about mitochondria -- the powerhouse of the cell! I went on to take AP Biology II my senior year with her as well, and remember the time we dissected a shark! But she made a bigger impression on me beyond teaching. She was the founding sponsor of the Duchesne dance team my freshman year and beyond. She chose me to serve as Co-Captain my sophomore year and fostered my love of dancing. I have so many great memories of the Duchesne Dancing Divas with her from practicing high kicks across the gym floor early before school started, to being on the morning newscast with a KHOU meteorologist, to rehearsing our Spring show and all the fun backstage shenanigans. She made our Dance team what it was -- she was a former Jersey Village Gold Duster and wanted us to experience that as well! Now that my 8 and 5-year-old daughters are in dance, I think about Mrs. Dalal often and want them to one day experience high school dance team like I did, all thanks to Shakti Dalal. RIP Mrs. Dalal. My condolences to her husband and children whom I know she lived for every second.

Dear Latha, Kavitha, Shakti's family and their dear friends,
It is heartbreaking to learn of Shakti's passing, even if it be that she's liberated from her suffering. What a beautiful person she was,  with a spirit and strength to never give up; a sweet, accomplished young woman, a dedicated teacher and an exemplary mother from all that we've known of her through close friends and family in Houston.
I recall the spunky little girl we saw with her adoring baby sister and their dad a few decades ago, then again as a cheery young mother herself, at a wedding we attended.
Our love, hugs and sincere prayers for you all to find peace and courage when grief makes way, in the days and months that follow, in the fondest of memories of 'Shakti' who embodied more than her human presence.
❤️❤️
Madhu and Raghu

I first met Shakti when she was a cute three year old, holding her parents hands. We bonded and since then, I have been a part of the Murthy, Karekar and Dalal family life and events. I have been lucky to catch every milestone event of Shakti’s talent — Indian classical music, dance, country & western dance and cheerleading events and have marveled at her skill and learning. She has been a role model for all her students. 
Dear Shakti — you will be missed dearly by all of us in everyday interactions but you will always be there in our thoughts and memories.
Love you 💕

I’m heartbroken to say goodbye to such a beautiful soul and dear friend. Shakti’s  kindness, laughter, and strength touched everyone. I’ll always treasure the memories we shared. Shakti, you are deeply missed and forever loved. 

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Sam, I am so very sorry to hear this. I know Shakti as a dedicated mother and wife. She was amazing  at her career and cared so
Much for the success of  all
Children!  I ran into her at the alterations shop ( befitting ofc since we are both vertically challenged !)  this summer and she looked as life was the best ever speaking so highly of you and the kids!!! 
I will always remember the warmth she gave me when I met her as the admissions counselor at St . Francis. Prayers and love ❤️ 
- Pushpa , Avi and Shayli Dubey

I have known and worked with Shakti since before she had children. Over the years, she loved to share stories about their latest adventures and achievements. 
Shakti went the "extra mile" for all the students she counseled for schools.  She always did the right thing for her "kids"!
I will miss her and the fun times we spent together. May she rest in peace and know that many loved her.

I’m so very sorry for your profound loss. I met Shakti at the Sai Center many years ago, when we were both in high school. She was always so kind, with a golden heart. May cherished memories bring  all of you peace and comfort. 🙏🏽

Dear Sandhya,Piyush & Dalal Family,

Please accept our heartfelt condolences.

We have a brief  acquaintance with dear Shakti and we realized her great qualities and the amazing dance she performed .

May God grant an eternal peace to the departed soul of dear Shakti.

Jai Shrikrishna 🙏

Smita & Suresh Parikh.

We are heartbroken at the news of Shakti's passing.  She was truly one of a kind. Her warmth, generosity, and boundless energy touched so many of us, especially through the school community. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, and her spirit brought people together in the most beautiful ways. Her legacy lives on in her incredible children, each of whom reflect her kindness and strength. This is a devastating loss, and our hearts and prayers are with your beautiful family.

I am heartbroken as I mourn the untimely loss of a beautiful spirit , a dedicated student of Bharathanatyam . Shakthi loved to dance and it was a joyful experience training her for the Arangetram. Her every step resonated with devotion , discipline grace and Bhakti. She had this quiet strength that inspired those around her. May her soul find peace in the eternal natyam of the cosmos. Om Shanthi dear Shakthi  . You will always be loved and remembered. 
“For  though her body rests her dance has not ended——- it has simply moved to a stage beyond our sight.

It’s hard to believe that my beloved sister-in-law is no longer with us. Her love, care, and cheerful presence touched everyone around her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in our hearts.

Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear sister-in-law. She will always be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

OBITUARY

Shakti Dalal

3 May, 1974 – 12 October, 2025

Memorial Oaks Funeral Home & Cemetery

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services