Kamala Devi Rellan

October 20, 1932 – June 20, 2026

It is with deep sadness and immense gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Kamala Devi Rellan, who passed away on June 20, 2026, at the age of 93, surrounded by family.

Kamala was born on October 20, 1932, in Kamalia, Lyallpur District, India, to HansRaj Rellan and Pyari Bai Narang, the second eldest of seven siblings. She is survived by her youngest sister, her many nieces and nephews, and their children and grandchildren. In name she was their aunt — known lovingly as Bua, Bhui, and Masi — but in their hearts, she was a mother. She raised or helped raise many of them at different points in their lives, and the home she built was always filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Kamala's passion for education never wavered. She earned multiple degrees from Panjab University — an FA, BA, MA, and BT -credentials considered equivalent to a PhD today, which led her to teach all high school subjects. She began her career in India as a teacher and later joined the Ministry of Education before immigrating to America in 1964. Here she continued teaching, then took computer courses that led her to a programming career at Xerox, often working double shifts. She later went on to volunteer with the Peace Corps as part of the teachers abroad program.

In the community, Kamala devoted more than 30 years to the Women's Club of McLean, serving as vice president and developing programs that continue to serve the club's members today. She lived with energy, purpose, and spirit — strong-willed, socially engaged, and always moving forward.

Kamala lived life entirely on her own terms, honoring her cultural heritage while embracing the full breadth of what her adopted country had to offer. She was as modern in her thinking as she was traditional in her values. When asked what advice she would give younger generations, she would say: respect the life that God has given you, believe in God's purpose for you, and enjoy the time you have here. She always added simply, "Khush Raho" — be happy.

Her legacy of love, kindness, and service will live on in every life she touched and every program she created.

The Funeral Service on June 28, 2026, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, is available to livestream by clicking the play button under the service information or by using this link https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c26068958682597