Bhagirathi Rangarajan

Bhagirathi Rangarajan

September 28, 1948 – August 11, 2025

Bhagirathi Rangarajan, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025, in Austin, Texas, at the age of 76.

Born on September 28, 1948, in Chennai, India, Bhagirathi spent her early years in Calcutta before moving to Chennai, later living in Ranipet, and ultimately making her home in Austin. In each place she lived, she left a legacy of kindness, service, and leadership.

A true people's person, Bhagirathi was everyone's best friend and confidant. People naturally gravitated toward her for her wise counsel, compassionate listening, and fierce commitment to truth. She led by example, embodying efficiency, warmth, and dedication. She was often the heart of family gatherings and the meticulous organizer behind special occasions.

Her professional life reflected the same compassion and determination that defined her personal relationships. Serving 20 years as an advocate in the Madras High Court, she often represented the voiceless and indigent, striving to bring positive change to their lives. She went on to serve as District Judge of Ranipet and Poonamallee, High Court–appointed counselor for family court cases, legal aid counsel, and Professor of Law, shaping young legal minds for the future.

She was known to be an extremely honest judge and received special commendation from the Supreme Court of India for the judgments she delivered. Till this day, her rulings are cited as legal references by judges across the country. As a family court counselor, she reunited many couples who had filed for divorce but, through counseling, found renewed commitment to one another. She gave generously of her time and talents, whether helping a neighbor in need or guiding students toward their goals. Even after retirement as a judge, she pursued her love for learning by completing an M.A. in Sanskrit.

Bhagirathi's compassion extended beyond the courtroom. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she stitched close to 500 masks for hospitals and created blankets and onesies for premature babies, giving comfort and care to those in need. She was also an active member of the Lions Club, consistently committed to service and community betterment.

Her passions were as varied as they were heartfelt - sewing, volunteering, teaching, cooking, gardening, and listening to spiritual discourses. She was instrumental in loving and raising her nieces and nephews, who adored her greatly. Her most treasured moments were spent with her four-year-old grandson, Shankar, teaching him colors, alphabets, and slokas, and showering him with unconditional love.

Bhagirathi is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. N.S. Rangarajan; her loving daughter, Srimathi; her son-in-law, Anand; her cherished grandson, Shankar; two brothers; one sister; and her many nieces and nephews. Her absence leaves a void that can never truly be filled, but her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A funeral service to honor her life will be held on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Beck Funeral Home, 15709 Ranch Road 620 N, Austin, Texas 78717.

Viewing: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. CDT (6:30–7:30 p.m. IST)

Funeral Service: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. CDT (7:30–8:30 p.m. IST)

Bhagirathi Rangarajan will be remembered not only for her professional achievements, but also for her generosity, compassion, and the many lives she touched with her wisdom and kindness. She lived a life of purpose and integrity - a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

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