Carmen Shireen De Silva

Born in Sri Lanka, Shireen was raised in the church, where she met the love of her life, Kenneth De Silva. Together, they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage before Kenneth’s passing in 2020.

In 1984, Shireen and Kenneth moved to Austin, Texas. With a vision rooted in compassion and education, they co-founded Northwest Montessori House of Children, a school that would go on to serve generations of families in the Austin community. Shireen was a beloved and inspiring educator—deeply committed to her students, staff, and the families she served. Under her leadership, the school flourished, becoming a cornerstone of the community and earning recognition from both the State of Texas and the White House for its remarkable impact. More than 40 years later, the school continues to thrive—a lasting testament to her life’s work.

Shireen was defined by her boundless generosity of spirit. She was sweet, funny, independent, and full of life. A woman of strength and character, she blazed her own trail with quiet confidence and grace. Alongside Kenneth, she was a devoted supporter of the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, where their faith and service to others found a spiritual home.

She found great joy in life’s simple pleasures—especially spending time in her garden and sharing quiet moments with her husband. In her final days, she was surrounded by love and filled with a deep peace, “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).

Shireen is now reunited in heaven with Kenneth, the light of her life. She is survived by her sister, Indira Chanmugam (Vivek); her daughters, Teruni Lamberg (Scott) and Shemara Jeyarajah (Rohan); grandchildren Shehan Jeyarajah (Bhargavi), Prashan Jeyarajah, Shara Jeyarajah, and Zack Lamberg; and great-granddaughter Sona Jeyarajah; her nieces Sashi Aiyatsurai and Sheani Vas. She also leaves behind many other beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will continue to carry her memory in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Those who knew Shireen will remember her not only for the legacy she built, but for the kindness, strength, and joy she shared so freely with the world.