Gnanasivasothidarajah Ponnampalam

With deep respect and affection, we honor the memory of Gnanasivasothidarajah Ponnampalam, fondly known as Sothi, who peacefully passed away in New Jersey, USA, on June 14, 2025. Born on October 3, 1940, in Sri Lanka, Sothi was a man of strong faith, remarkable discipline, and an inspiring spirit. This spirited individual lived a life firmly rooted in his beliefs, and his steadfast faith guided him through every stage of his journey.

Sothi was a man of meticulous order and discipline. He served as a Sergent for the Sri Lankan Railway in Colombo Fort, Colombo before retiring in 2001. His dedication to his duty was only matched by his commitment to his personal values. Impeccably neat and organized, Sothi was always punctual and took pride in his well-ironed attire. A lover of travel, he was a selective eater and had a unique, natural proficiency that set him apart. As Mother Teresa once said, "Religion is not something that you or I can touch. Religion is the worship of God — therefore a matter of conscience." Sothi's profound relationship with his faith was a testament to his deep-rooted conscience that touched everyone who knew him. He currently serves as the president of his Kula Theivam Valai Amman Temple in Araly, Jaffna.

Sothi lived surrounded by the love of his cherished daughters, Jothiprashanthi Lingathayalan, Thushanthy Thavachelvan, and Sivanthy Paraneetharan. He was predeceased by his parents, Veluppillai Ponnampalam and Ponnampalam Kanagamma.

**Funeral Information: **
Funeral Puja, Viewing & Last Rites
*Date: Sunday, June 22, 2025
*Time: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm EDT
*Location: Lester Memorial Home
16 W. Church Street, Jamesburg, NJ 08831

**Cremation**
*Date: Sunday, June 22, 2025
*Time: 1:30 pm EDT
*Location: Liberty Grove Crematory
549 Morristown Road, Old Bridge, NJ

We encourage all who knew and loved Sothi to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. His spirit lives on in the stories we share and the love we hold for him in our hearts.

Arrangements are under the respectful care and direction of Funeral Director: Christine Cuoco of Ruby Memorial Funeral Home.