Swarna Chalasani

Swarna Chalasani

Swarna Chalasani Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Nov. 9, 2001.
Peripatetic Adventurer
When Swarna Chalasani traveled — and she traveled a lot — it was never simply a vacation. It was an adventure.

She rode white-water rapids in Colorado. She backpacked through Thailand. She taught herself Japanese and Spanish to prepare for her trips abroad. She read voluminously about her destinations weeks before she left.

Ms. Chalasani was a vice president at Fiduciary Trust and was last seen on the 94th floor of 2 World Trade Center on the day of the attack. She would have celebrated her 34th birthday today.

Her first name means "gold" in Hindi, though her family called her Minny. "She was the smallest of the three girls, and the cutest," her sister, Sandhya, said.

If she had a taste for the exotic, she also had a knack for making her home into a comfortable palace. There were beautiful paintings and shelves full of books. There were plants and scented candles. "She treated these things likes sacred objects," her mother, Lakshmi, said.

The lost echoes of her full-throated laughter. The memory of her smile across the dinner table. Her postcards mailed from distant countries. This is all that remains of Ms. Chalasani.

Her family guards them like the sacred objects they have now become.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Swarna Chalasani's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

September 11, 2021

Hari Polavarapu posted to the memorial.

September 11, 2021

John Yarbrough posted to the memorial.

September 4, 2021

Cindy Roe posted to the memorial.

Hari Polavarapu

September 11, 2021

Swarna, you are fondly remembered and cherished for all that you were.

Miss you, miss your beautiful smile, miss your hearty laughter, miss your warm kindness, miss all that was very special about you! Will see you again for sure......God bless you!!

John Yarbrough

September 11, 2021

Swarna, I never met you but your story has been a part of all of our lives now for 20 years, and will be forever. To us you are no stranger. God bless you.

Cindy Roe

September 4, 2021

Remembering Swarna on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...

Del Newberry

September 14, 2020

Praying for 'Minny's' family today. We will never forget that day. Much love from Texas,

August 16, 2019

RIP to a 9-11 victim at the Twin Towers.

September 11, 2017

Swarna and all the others who perished are REMEMBERED and WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN! Let us honor them by seeking peace for all...
-J. Tibbetts, NH 9/11/17

Roy Tracy

September 11, 2016

15 years ago many beautiful lives were lost. One of those I had the great fortune of meeting and sharing with her the serenity and glory of the Adirondacks. She was kind and sweet. She had a warming sense of humor and an addictive smile and laugh. As a young pup charged with the responsibility of her safety and introducing her to the wilderness I never imagined she would be more at risk sitting in her office in the world trade center. In memory of my dear Swarna Chalasani; meeting you and losing you has influenced my life and will continue to do so forever. Always in my heart.

Hari Polavarapu

September 11, 2015

Kind Heart. Cheerful smile. Hearty laugh. Fond memories. Swarna, you are missed. God bless you always.

Chip Elliott

September 17, 2013

Swarna,
Your mermory continues to shine brightly in everyone you touched.

Hari Polavarapu

September 11, 2013

You are remembered warmly. God bless your soul.

Wadi Gonzalez

September 11, 2013

Although I worked with Swarna for brief time at Prudential (about 2 months), she left an impression on me. I was sorry to hear about her passing on that faithful day. I still think about her and the brief time we spent as co-workers. She was a great person to talk to and she will be missed. My thoughts and prayers continue to go out to her friends and family.

Hema

September 11, 2013

Thinking of Swarna and all those who love and miss her. I met Swarna only a couple of times--once when she graciously agreed to have dinner to discuss her work with Sakhi as I was considering becoming a volunteer. She struck me as being warm, kind, smart, and obviously cared deeply for her family, whom she referenced several times. I had hoped we'd become friends. I still think of her, her ready smile, and her kindness.

Hari Chandra

September 11, 2012

Swarna:

Time does not diminish your memory

Your laughter and kindness ring fresh as ever

Om Shanti! Om Shanti!! Om Shanti!!!

Miss you...a lot

Farukh Farooqi

September 13, 2011

I met Swarna in 1998 when, I think, she was at Bank of Tokyo and I was finishing up my MBA at NYU in the evenings, aspiring to get a job on Wall Street.

We became friends, always kept in touch. She helped me so many times getting me job interviews, I never had to ask her, she volunteered.

In 1999, I joined Merrill and since she was at Pru and later at Fiduciary, just a block away, we used to meet for lunch every now and then.

I will never forget Swarna. She was full of life, eyes always sparkling and a wide smile on her face. She was a good friend. I wish I could have done more for her.

Jimisha

September 11, 2011

The world needs more people like you. I was glad to have met you!

September 11, 2011

Swarna,

We knew each other such a short time at the Bank of Tokyo, but I echo the thoughts of others who have described you so well. Prayers of peace to you and your family.
Chip Elliott, Columbus, Ohio

Hari Chandra

September 11, 2011

Wish you were here with your charming smile

I miss you...

September 11, 2011

Swarna:

May your smile shine forever and may your kind heart stop never

You are golden and very special for me my dear

I will never forget for I miss you everyday

May God take care of you in every way

Ruchi Gupta

September 10, 2011

Thinking of you...and will never forget. You were one of the kindest persons I knew when I first came to NY/NJ. Sending our prayers to your family.

September 6, 2011

6 September 2011 - Peace to all who miss you. We remember and will not forget.
-J. Tibbetts, Merrimack, NH

Janice Tibbetts

September 12, 2009

Well, we have passed another September 11th and the losses are still hard to bear. I continue to hope you are in peace, Swarna, and that you watch over your loved ones. I am sure you remain securely in their hearts. We will not forget.

Reshma Patel

September 11, 2009

Today and always I remember your kindness and generousity. Wish we had more time together.

Phil

September 11, 2009

Was honored this morning to wear the name of Swarna Chalasani durning a memorial run. I hope family and friends will be comforted and celebrate her life yearly.

madhu boppana

November 17, 2008

miss you swarna,

Madhu

Janice Tibbetts

September 6, 2008

We are coming up on that day again. It is painful. I can never know the pain of the family and friends who lost this woman but I continue to keep her in my thoughts and wish peace to all who knew her.

Sharon

September 10, 2007

In memory..

Janice Tibbetts

July 11, 2007

I have been reading Lisa Beamer's story about her husband and am once again compelled to sign in about Swarna. I briefly knew her sister, niece and brother-in-law. I am so sorry for their loss. She is not forgotten. Peace to all who read this.

Kristine

October 13, 2006

As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vane. We will always remember.

Marjorie Sheron

September 11, 2006

To the family of Swarna,



I am a friend of Gita Kalra Sharma who introduced me to Swarna. I will never forget her. Her sweet nature and selfless service to others continues to inspire me. My heart goes out to you on this sad anniversary.

P Tabbernor

September 9, 2006

In memory....

Janice Tibbetts

September 12, 2005

Dear Family of Swarna,

Yesterday, in my town of Tewksbury, we dedicated a memorial to those lost on 9/11/01 and there is a paver there for Swarna. It was the first one I looked for. Her picture is in my house so that I will never forget her or the other loved ones that perished that day. Please know that Swarna is remembered by many more than just her family and friends. I am so sorry for your loss but know she continues to live on in your hearts. Peace to you all.

Freddy De Schutter

December 12, 2004

It does heart pain what has happened on 11 September 2001.

Our sympathy is prayed and with you.

Prasad Kurupati

September 12, 2004

may her soul rest in peace..

rear to c this kind of profiles...



like vivekanand,bhagathsingh who get the best in life very early age...



swarna u will remain in ppl memories for the best u achieved...





prasad kurupati

Lt. Christopher Farrell PAPD

September 25, 2003

You radiated beauty and kindness I wished I could have known you better My 37 brother and sister cops join you in heaven where they enjoy your smile.When the first PATH train runs next month I will carry the picture of a smiling lady who liked the way we helped homeless people. I will honor your good works For Afghani women and will continue them I promise-Lt. Chris Farrell PAPD

jan sanders

November 9, 2002

From: Jan, Diana and Sioux

Thinking of you on this date, November 9, 2002, we will walk with you with your memory in our hearts.

Namaste.

Kishani Jayasinghe

November 5, 2002

Distant memories of loved ones...

Faded laughter and kisses...

Rustling sounds of Autumn leaves...

Telling me something it misses...

In the fields of darkness you disappeared...

Didn't get a chance to say good-bye...

Where are you right now my dear...

Are you a sweet Angel in the sky...

You are gone but not your warmth...

Not your memory, wit or love..

In the rustling winds of Autumn...

I can feel you coming home...



Dear Swarna...I never met you and we are thousands of miles away from each other. But I feel your pain and I feel for your family. I am so sorry this happened to you. It's an unimaginable tragedy but I think God takes the best first so you must be already busy lighting up the Heavens...



I hope you are happy where you are and please lookafter your family. I am sorry we never got a chance to meet here on Earth but I hope we'll one day light up the Heavens together...

Cathryn Liska

September 11, 2002

Hi, I'm a senior in high school at Divine Savior Holy Angels catholic school in Milwaukee, Wi. At our prayer service today I received a sticker with Swarna's name on it. I came online to read about who she was, and offer my condolences to you. I can't imagine how devastating it is, but know that you are in my prayers, as well as the prayers of a nation.

Janice Tibbetts

September 8, 2002

To the family, friends and colleagues of Swarna- I never met Swarna but I had the fortune to meet one of her sisters, a brother-in-law, a niece, and her father. I am so sorry for their loss. From her sister's description of her and from the words in this guestbook, a beautiful and caring person has been lost to us all. I know they will keep her memory alive and will treasure her in their hearts. Go in peace, Swarna. Peace to your family, friends and colleagues...

Ziyaad Carrim

August 23, 2002

May the almighty bless all whose lives have been lost under these cowardly acts and grant the families who lost there loved ones patience and strength through these trying times

Angie Campbell

April 23, 2002

I can remember your loved on talking with CNN about you. You where missing and they wanted you back. How I wish that everyone could have made it back home to the ones that love them. Rest in peace.

Senthuran Nadarajah

March 11, 2002

There are no words that can say or express the way your family and friends have missed you. You are not forgotten! God bless your soul.......

MONICA Bhatia

January 22, 2002

I met Swarna for the first time briefly at dinner on the 8th of September at a common friend's place and we chatted for a long time as we discovered we had a lot in common. I really liked her and after I left the party I thought I would get to know her better and meet her again sometime soon. It was not to happen. Even now I cannot get over the sadness when I remember how brightly she was talking not knowing what was to happen 3 days later. There was something very nice and calming about her personality and I was instantly drawn to her. May God bless her and give her family and friends to bear her loss.

Teresa Jahn

January 6, 2002

We are deeply sorry for your loss of Minny. May her sense of adventure, her life and love live on in you. May the sorrow in your hearts be lightened by precious memories of moments shared together. Our hearts cry with you.

America Cries

We see your sorrow-

and our hearts cry....

We can not erase your pain

but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-

-the American people-

are beside you.

We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,

the strength that gives you courage,

and the words to lighten your spirits.

And when we are left speechless

may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts

to ease your sorrow.

May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-

-the American people-

face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn

Dixon, IL

December 31, 2001

I didn't know angels flew so low until I met you the first time. I hope you can see us..there is a great void without you here.

I hope you always stayin the safe hands of god in heaven.

Gene Martello

December 23, 2001

Swarna, I've read such beautiful things about you and wish I could have met you.I picked your name from our prayer book in church to pray for especially during Advent. I know you're with God. May we meet in Heaven.

December 19, 2001

I knew you for a short passing moment in life but when I heard that you were gone I felt such sadness. You were far too young--but they do say that He takes the best first. May we all be as fortunate to meet someone as nice and giving as you. May your family and friends find some comfort in the knowledge that you are in a better place and at peace.

December 18, 2001

Swarna, you were an angel in life. You are now with the other angels in heaven.

December 18, 2001

MAY SWARNA CHALASINI SEE THE FACE OF

GOD AND ALL HIS ANGELS..AMEN

IRENE

December 18, 2001

DEAR GOD IN HEAVEN BLESS SWARNA

CHALASINI AND REST IN PEACE.GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD

BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01

Showing 1 - 49 of 49 results

Make a Donation
in Swarna Chalasani's name

How to support Swarna 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Swarna Chalasani's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Swarna Chalasani's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

September 11, 2021

Hari Polavarapu posted to the memorial.

September 11, 2021

John Yarbrough posted to the memorial.

September 4, 2021

Cindy Roe posted to the memorial.