Amitava Datta

Amitava Datta, 79, of East Greenwich, passed away suddenly at home on Thursday, November 20, 2025. Born in Rangpur, East Bengal, India on January 5, 1946, he was the son of the late Amar and Usha (Chanda) Datta.

For 43 memorable years, Amit walked hand in hand through life with his beloved wife, Susan L. (Otto) Datta. Before coming to the United States in 1968, he graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology in Kharagpur, India. After arriving in America, he continued his education, earning his Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh.

Amit built a distinguished 50-year career as an engineer in material science, where he owned and operated his own company. His work, dedication, and intellect earned him great respect in his field.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Amit enjoyed a life filled with curiosity and joy. He loved traveling, savoring fine cuisine, watching and playing soccer and tennis. A devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan since his college days, he cherished the annual Steelers–Patriots games he attended with his family-memories that will forever be treasured.

Amit will be remembered as a genuine, hardworking man, and above all, a devoted husband, father, and family member. He lived a good and meaningful life and leaves behind countless wonderful memories.

He is survived by his sons, Sumon M. Datta and his wife Veronica and David A. Rice, and his wife, Valerie; a grandson, Matthew Rice; and two brothers, Arun Datta and Utpal Datta. He is also survived by two nieces, Kaveri Barros and Deepti Datta; and one nephew, Kunal Datta; his sisters-in-law: Christine Defilippi and Meher Datta. He is predeceased by his son Avijit "JJ" Datta (2015) and a sister-in-law Rosebelle Datta (2022).

A Hindu service will be held on Monday, November 24, at 12:00 p.m. at Carpenter-Jenks Funeral Home, 659 East Greenwich Avenue, West Warwick. Cremation will immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Amit's memory to Joslin Diabetes Center, One Joslin Place, Boston, MA 02215 or www.joslin.org Or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital www.stjude.org.