Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

J.B. Tallent Funeral Service & Crematory

1937 North Sharon Amity Road

Charlotte, North Carolina

Vidya Sethi Obituary

Dr. Vidya Sagar Sethi CHARLOTTE - Dr. Vidya Sagar Sethi, 77, son of Diwanchand Sethi and Ramrakhi Wadhwa, departed this life on October 9, 2015, at Pineville Medical Center. A visitation and service will be held on October 13, at 2:00pm at JB Tallent Funeral Home at 1937 Sharon Amity Rd. in Charlotte. Dr. Sethi was born in Lahore on December 1, 1937, before the partition of India and Pakistan. He got his undergraduate and Master's degrees First Class First in Pharmacy from Banaras Hindu University, India. Awarded scholarships from both East and West Germany, he earned his Ph.D. magna cum laude in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Munich University, Germany. In January of 1971, Dr. Sethi and immigrated to the United States with his former wife and eldest daughter. He later studied medicine, earning an MD and becoming a psychiatrist at the age of 50. Dr. Sethi practiced psychiatry at Carmel Psychiatric Associates from 1991 until September 2015. He was deeply loved by his family, friends and patients. Dr. Sethi was active in the Unitarian Universalist Church, as well as the Sikh Gurdwara and Hindu Center of Charlotte. He was the author of the groundbreaking book, Solving Psychiatric Puzzles; published over 80 peer-reviewed scientific papers in the field of biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology and anti-cancer drugs; and established the endowed V. Sagar Sethi Mental Health Research Award through the North Carolina Psychiatric Association, awarded annually to a scholar excelling in mental health research. Dr. Sethi's intellectual curiosity, quirky sense of humor, deep compassion and keen interest was evident to all he served. He was dedicated to helping his patients improve their lives through medicine and the destigmatization of mental illness. He was an avid tennis player, lover and collector of fine Indian art and literature, and a proficient and talented photographer. Dr. Sethi was a global citizen: raised in Asia, completing studies in Europe, spending most of his life in the United States and seeking adventures through extensive travel. He was a fierce, brilliant light in this world and is sorely missed. Dr. Sethi is survived by his wife, Dolores Peregrino; his two daughters, Preeti Simran Sethi, Deepti Sethi, and their mother Hemlata Sethi; his step-daughter, Rebecca Heinrich; and his grandchildren, Dev and Avi Nabizadeh and Amaya and Elena Heinrich. Condolences may be made online at the JB Tallent Funeral Service website. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to the North Carolina Psychiatric Association in honor of the V. Sagar Sethi Mental Health Research Award.

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

Published by Charlotte Observer on Oct. 11, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Vidya Sethi

Not sure what to say?





Debra Baker

June 14, 2016

I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Sethi's passing.
I just found out yesterday from my new doctor Dr. Wallace at Eastover Psychiatric. Dr. Sethi was a very special person, and a great psychiatrist. I was his patient from the early 90's! I am so sorry for your loss Delores, and your family! You are in my thoughts and prayers!

Kalahasti Ramesh

February 21, 2016

Dr. Sethi was five years senior to me at Benaras Hindu University. We lived in the same housing side by side and can never forget the laughter he brought to all of us. He was a brilliant student. The last I met him was in February 2015 at the Barnes and Nobles in the Colony. Enjoyed a nice cup of coffee and lovely conversation. Lovely person indeed. May his soul rest in peace. Condolences to Mrs. Sethi.

Chantell Herring

December 3, 2015

Oh my Dr Sethi was such a wonderful soul. My last visit with him was late August, besides treating me he always talked about President Obama. Prayers are sent to the family.

Heidi Johnson

December 1, 2015

Today is Dr. Sethi's day of birth. In honor of him, I will celebrate his Life and the wonderful contributions to making the life of others better. He was an amazing man and he is going to be missed by me and many others. My condolences to all of his family. I know his bright light will continue to shine on us all. Just thinking of him can make one smile. Delores, you are in my prayers dear one. May you find comfort in your faith. I am praying for you and your family. I miss seeing him and I miss seeing you. My husband Michael misses him as well. You are loved, Heidi Johnson

Harold K McLean

November 30, 2015

I just learned of the death of Dr. Sethi and it greatly saddened me. I enjoyed having Dr. Sethi as my psychiatrist for the past ten years. He will be hard to replaced.

Sybil Wicker

November 22, 2015

I just learned of Dr. Sethi's passing yesterday. The news broke my heart. He was one of the sweetest, most intelligent, talented people I've ever met. He has helped me tremendously and I will never forget him. To his family, you have my deepest sympathies. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Mary Crews

November 2, 2015

Dolores, I think of you every day especially as I pass by your street. My heart is so sad for the loss of Sagar, who for more than 20 years enriched my life (and the lives of everyone in the yoga room) with his friendship, wisdom, delightful humor and boundless, encouraging energy. You and he comforted me when my own husband died with cardiac arrest 16 years ago and have both blessed me with many good times together. I could hardly get my breath when I saw Sagar's picture and learned the sad news. It's so hard to believe. Please let me know if there is ANY way I can be of help to you and please give my love and sympathy to his daughters and to yours. Love to all. Namaste'

Jim Young

November 1, 2015

Dolores. Dr Sethi improved my life greatly by changing the medication I had been taking for 10 years for bipolar. I really enjoyed him. He even got involved with marriage counseling when my wife demanded a meeting to discuss my behavior which he called personal choice. I enjoyed knowing him and found him an excellent doctor and confidant. Bless you

Illa Joshi

October 31, 2015

Hello Dolores,

I am not sure if you remember me, but we met at the Festival of India, Illa Joshi.

I am terribly sorry to hear about Dr. Sethi's death. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad and difficult time.
Please do not hesitate to call me if you need anything. Though we have only met a couple of times, it feels like I have known you for a very long time. Maybe the 'Love of Art' pulled us close together.

Again, please call me if you need anything. Please say hello to Simran, it was nice meeting her at the festival.

Wishing you and your family peace and healing.

Warm Regards,
Illa

Michael Dickheiser

October 20, 2015

My condolences :/

Tamara Keeler

October 20, 2015

Delores I am so sorry for your loss. I loved your whole family. I just remember that last smile that he was going to retire. I told him that I would miss him and he just smiled at me. I really will. I just found out today. He was VERY special to me the last 16 years. He was always so caring and loving. I will always carry a special place in my heart for him.

October 19, 2015

This is Dolores I wish to thank all sweet and gentle people who were present at Sagar's memorial service, and for the warm words of comfort from those that could not be there.
Family and friends knew how much Sagar loved and enjoyed his life, so lucky, so blessed and all used up.

My sweetie,
In this way remember that I love you, signs I need, not time. We will find each other again.
Vaya con Dios, be good.

Angie and Susan Ledezma

October 19, 2015

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. He will be missed but remains in our heart and memory. Be well and have peace.

Benjamin Barnes

October 16, 2015

What an amazing man. I'll never forget the impact he's had on my life. Some people leave a mark but his is immeasurably profound.

C C

October 15, 2015

Thank God for this man's life. He got me sober...finally...and kept watch over me for seven years. My family is so thankful.

Jennifer Adams-Anderson, LCSW

October 14, 2015

Eric and I learned only this morning that Dr. Sethi had passed away. This is a great loss to the Charlotte community and to everyone around the world fortunate enough to have known him, personally or professionally. He was brilliant and funny and loved the arts so much. I'll always remember a wonderful dinner we had with he and Delores several years ago at Thai Taste here in Charlotte. He later gave me a signed copy of a book of poetry he'd written that I will cherish even more now. Our deepest sympathies are offered to Delores and to his family. May you be blessed and uplifted in this time of great sorrow. Eric and Jennifer Anderson

Shanta Sharma

October 14, 2015

My most sincere condolences to all family members of Dr. Sethi's family. As an old time friend, I deeply share your loss and pray for the comfort of your heart. He will take his light and love, wherever he goes. Shanta Sharma

Charlene Best

October 14, 2015

I am so sad to hear of my Dr Sethi's passing. I was shocked to learn of this. He was a great Dr. I am so glad I got to see him in September . Your wife and sister in law were the greatest secretaries. I was sad to know you were retiring, and now to hear this. God bless you Doris and all the family!!!!

Eunice Milton Benton

October 14, 2015

I treasure my memories of Sagar and all the family -- especially during the years the daughters were growing up in Winston-Salem. And it was a gift to have a visit with Sagar in 2011 at the UUA General Assembly in Charlotte and I so appreciated his making an effort to have some time with me. Now I celebrate his legacy as it is lived out in his daughters and their families -- and especially celebrate Pretti Simran's book -- "Bread, Wine and Chocolate" -- which will be published November 10th! I know he was extraordinarily proud of his daughters and their families! Love and appreciation to all his family and close friends.

Charlotte & Christopher Doyle

October 13, 2015

Celebrating a life well lived.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Charlotte & Christopher Doyle

Michael Lovett

October 13, 2015

I had the chance to hear Sagar speak at some length during a "This I believe, this I practice" presentation at our church. He brilliantly combined and communicated his love of science and reason, and his wonderful sense of humanity, into an insightful, revealing and humbling prose. I distinctly remember thinking "This is a person I would really like to get to know better". Sadly this will not happen, but I'm so glad for the positive impact he's had on so many minds and hearts.

Howard Mason

October 13, 2015

To Delores , family, & all loved ones of Dr Sethi: He had a wonderful life & was indeed a remarkable man . He inspired & touched many who will forever cherish his presence in their lives. He enriched our lives. I am most blessed that our life paths crossed and shall sorely miss him. My sincere thoughts for his family, friends , and all who loved him dearly -PEACE - to soothe you ; GRACE- to hold you ; LOVE - to comfort you--- - - His friend , colleague, life brother Howard K Mason ,MD

Anita Luthra

October 12, 2015

My deepest condolences and thoughts to the family.

Patrick Mlauzi

October 12, 2015

Our dear friend left us too soon. We are blessed that he touched our lives when he decided to play tennis. He was a very inspiring man who saw only the good in others and worked hard to advance medicine and improve the lives of his patients. We will forever miss you my dear friend. Delores our heart go out to you and we are here for you.

In sorrow, your tennis friends and Patrick

Damyanti, Shiv & Pali Amarsingh

October 12, 2015

Our heartfelt condolences to Sethi family & our precious nieces.
A bright burning light in all our lives Will be never forgotten.
May his soul rest in peace.

Dr. Sharyn Comeau/ Psychiatrist

October 12, 2015

So sad..he will be greatly missed.

Tom McNeely

October 12, 2015

When I see some of Sagar's many endeavors and accomplishments summarized in his obituary, I'm reminded of what an extraordinary man he was. And that does not even touch on what a caring friend and warm, fun, engaging companion he was. His good humor and enthusiasm always lifted my spirits. I will miss him terribly.

Evie Henderson

October 12, 2015

To Dolores and the family of Sagar: I am SO sorry to get this news. My deepest condolences to you. And, I'm so sorry that I could not get to Charlotte a few weeks ago to see you all. I will miss the spirit of his presence. He was a brilliant and unique individual. My warmest wishes to you and the family at this time.

October 12, 2015

Deepest sympathy to all the family. It was a privilege to know this extraordinary man and we will treasure memories of our conversations at the UUChurch of Charlotte. Felicia & Tom Lee

October 12, 2015

Dr. and Mrs. Sethi were to be scheduled for a day's visit with us in Raleigh , lunch at the National Humanities Center, afternoon visit Meymandi Touring Exhibition Gallery and NCMA followed by dinner and an evening with NC Symphony at Meymandi Concert Hall. It is shocking to learn his loss.
Love, Joy and blessings to his family and to all who knew him.

Assad Meymandi

Ms. Flonnie Taylor

October 12, 2015

To The Sethi Family,
Death leaves a heartache that only God Almighty can heal, Love leaves precious memories that no one can steal. May your pain and sorrow soon be replaced with wonderful memories of your cherish loved one, to help carry you through this sad time.
With Loving-Kindness and Peace,

October 12, 2015

Sad to hear about Sagar's passing away. Our condolences to Dolores and family. He will be missed by his colleagues and friends.
Ashwin Patkar (personally and on behalf of Indo American Psychiatric Association)

October 12, 2015

Delores and family,
I am so sorry to learn of Dr. Sethi's passing. He spoke of you and his children and grandchildren with fondness and pride. He made a remarkable difference in our lives. We will never forget his gentle smile and kind guidance. Our thoughts are with you.
The Sachs Family

October 12, 2015

Dr Sehti was a beautiful man, inside and out. Full of wisdom, compassion, and sincerity. He leaves an amazing legacy. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He shared his excitement and plans for retirement. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

October 12, 2015

I had the opportunity to sit next to Sagar during a couple of conferences at the recent NCPA meeting. I was far from thinking that one would be the last time I talked to him.

My condolences to Dolores and his family. We have him on our thoughts and prayers.

J. Octavio Salazar, MD

Scott Steward

October 12, 2015

I've had the privilege of filming and documenting many great milestones in his life and career.
You will be truly missed and will be remembered for being such a kind and loyal friend to me. Will miss you Sethi.

Teri Harvey

October 12, 2015

James and I are so glad that we were able to see Sagar, just a couple of weeks ago! Always Happy, Always Encouraging, and Always a Good Guy!

Betty & Lou Palomba

October 12, 2015

It was with great sadness to learn of Sethi passing. Our thoughts and love go out to the family. He was a very special person.

bridget lockhart

October 12, 2015

Dr Sethi,
It is so hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember.
Words, however kind can't mend your heartache, but those that care and share your loss wish you comfort and peace of mind.
To your Journey!

Veeru Goli

October 11, 2015

Heartfelt condolences to the family. It is certainly a loss to the psychiatric community.

Tarun Sethi

October 11, 2015

Very sorry and sad to hear this news. It's a big loss for our Sethi family. He was a passionate, caring, and loving man. He will be sorely missed. He will be in our memories and prayers.

Tarun Sethi

October 11, 2015

Very sad to hear the news. It was a big loss for Sethi family. He will be always remembered for being a caring and loving man. He will be sorely missed.

October 11, 2015

Dr. Sethi's family,

I am sad to hear that Dr. Sethi has passed. Although we only met briefly, I feel I knew him through our mutual patients/clients. His unique talent will be missed in the mental health community.

My condolences,

Kathy DiCola

October 11, 2015

Dear Delores, I was shocked and saddened to learn of Dr.Sethi passing. I think I was one of the first patients when he started his practice. I was his patient for 24 years. He was a tremendous help during all those years, especially after losing my husband in 1996. He was a very caring person and I will miss him, but I also miss you and the small talk we shared. You are and will always remain in my prayers. Doris Vaughn

Chet and Elaine Gurski

October 11, 2015

Dear Delores, Elaine and I are heartbroken to hear that Sagar has passed away. He was a very special person and we are proud to be counted among his many friends.

Vijaya Gagrani

October 11, 2015

Dolores, me and my husband, Satya are very sorry for your loss. We will miss Sagar Ji, praying for his sole to rest in peace. You and your family is in our thought and prayer. Vijaya

Gina Helt

October 11, 2015

Dolores, I am so sorry for your loss. He was such a great, kind and caring person. I am thinking of you and your family. Gina

October 11, 2015

Dear Delores,

I was very sorry to hear about Dr. Sethi. He was a long time supporter of the Mecklenburg Psychological Association attending most if not all of our joint MPA-Psychiatry events and would verbalize his appreciation of MPA's role in encouraging networking among mental health professionals. I know that many of us have shared clients/patients with him over the years. He was a psychiatrist who accepted insurance and who could get clients in to be seen is a relatively reasonable amount of time. His absence will be greatly felt in Charlotte.

I am thinking of you and the family.

Nona Patterson

Showing 1 - 48 of 48 results

Make a Donation
in Vidya Sethi's name

Memorial Events
for Vidya Sethi

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

J.B. Tallent Funeral Service & Crematory

1937 North Sharon Amity Road, Charlotte, NC 28205

How to support Vidya'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 Vidya Sethi'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