Padma Somar

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Padma “Shelia” Somar on January 3, 2025.  Born June 5th, 1945, in Bush Lot Village, Corentyne Berbice, Guyana, South America, she was the sixth child of nine to Harrynarine & Dolly Harrypersaud.  Padma spent her early years in Guyana, where she married Petambar Somar.  Together, they embarked on a new journey, arriving in New York City with their seven children on Christmas Eve, 1977. Shortly after their arrival, the family moved to Hoboken, NJ, where they began working towards the American dream.   Determined to create opportunities for her family, Padma worked relentlessly as a seamstress, often holding multiple jobs to ensure a brighter future for her children. In 1980, they purchased their home in Jersey City, NJ through hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. Padma’s home became a haven of love, warmth, and hospitality, welcoming family and friends with open arms.

After the passing of her husband in 1989, Padma remained a steadfast supporter of her children, placing great emphasis on the importance of education. She took immense pride in their accomplishments and never missed a graduation. As a devoted grandmother, lovingly known as "Nanni" and "Aggie," Padma played an active role in her grandchildren's lives—whether babysitting, cooking, school pick-ups, or traveling across the country to support them. Even those who were not family loved her and were loved by her, as she treated them like her own.

Aside from her family, her other passion in life was cooking!  She is known for her duck curry, black pudding sausage, and many other traditional Guyanese dishes.  Her legendary backyard parties were filled with dancing, laughter, and second helpings of food. She enjoyed traveling, especially back to her homeland.  Her suitcases would be filled with necessities and gifts for family and friends.  Her generosity knew no bounds—ensuring that everyone received something they needed, even when she had little to give.

Padma leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by her children: Basmattie (Shamanie) Pojednic, RN; Dr. Rohan Somar, MD, MBA; Gowkarran Somar, PE, PMP; Padmanie (Ningo) Somar, Khalmanie Pluckhan, MBA; Dr. Bhojeewattie (Bo) Soobryan, DNP, ANP-BC; and Rohanie Dimitriou, Marketing Manager/Public Affairs, her sons and daughters-in-law: Charles Pojednic, Jerri Somar, Marlene Somar, Brian Pluckhan, Hermon Soobryan, and Nick Dimitriou; her siblings and in-laws: Kussila and George Budhu, and Harrynarine and Yvette Persaud; and her cherished sixteen grandchildren: Melanie and Justin, Stephanie, Dr. Tyler, MD; Sabrina, Mitchell, Rohan Jr., Emily, Julianne, Johnathan, Benjamin, Dean, Matthew, Jack, Ethan, Raquel, and Kobe. She was a beloved great-grandmother (Nanni Nanni) to Ellis. In addition, she was a devoted Mosie and Poowah to over thirty nieces and nephews and a welcoming friend to many.

Padma now rests in eternal peace alongside her husband, Petambar Somar; her daughter, Lilliwattie; and her grandson, Nelson Matabhik.

Padma’s presence was a blessing to all who knew her. Her unwavering kindness, generosity, and selflessness leave an enduring legacy. She fought the good fight, finished the race, and remained faithful. Her reward awaits her in Heaven.

Visitation will be on Tuesday January 7, 2025 from 5:00 PM -9:00 PM at Riotto Funeral Home & Cremation Company, 3205 Kennedy Blvd. Jersey City. (For GPS navigation, it is best to use our parking lot address: 14 Stagg Street). Funeral service will be on Wednesday January 8, 2025 at 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM a interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 225 Ridgedale Ave, East Hanover, NJ 07936