Thakor Manilal Patel

Thakor Manilal Patel passed away peacefully in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 80, surrounded by love.

A funeral service will be held on February 3, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Deguispe Funeral Home, located at 9001 N. Orlando Ave., Maitland, FL 32751. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and celebrate Thakor's life.

Thakor is survived by his devoted wife, Urmila Patel; his children Rena Tumu and her spouse Shanthan Tumu, their children Milan and Mila Tumu; and his son Jay Patel. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Amy Patel, whom he held forever in his heart.

Born on May 21, 1945, in Siswa, India, Thakor was the son of Manilalbhai and Chanchalben Patel. He was raised in Ahmedabad, one of six siblings, and shared a deep and enduring bond with his brothers and sisters. Family meant everything to him, and he especially cherished time spent with his nieces and nephews, whom he adored.

In Ahmedabad, Thakor formed lifelong friendships, attended C.N. High School, and later L.M. College of Pharmacy. He also spent time serving with the Indian Army, an experience he carried with pride. His journey took him briefly to Kenya before he immigrated to the United States in 1972.

Thakor began his life in America in Lowell, Massachusetts, working as a pharmacy technician before pursuing further studies at St. Xavier University in New Orleans, Louisiana. He eventually settled in New Jersey, where he worked as a pharmacist at an independent pharmacy and at a hospital on weekends. After becoming ill in 1992, he and his family moved to Orlando, Florida, which remained his home.

Thakor will be remembered for his infectious laughter, quick wit, and boundless energy. He enjoyed a cold Heineken, a perfectly made tandoori chicken or biryani, and spent many hours watching the news and Jeopardy! -often challenging his children to keep up with him. Above all, in his later years, his greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren, Milan and Mila. Milan especially loved walking around with Dada's cane and playfully wrestling with him, moments that brought Thakor endless happiness.

Thakor's life was one of resilience, devotion, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.