Jaswant Mody

Jaswant "Jay" Bhailal Mody passed away suddenly on the Fourth of July, 2021 in his hometown of Piscataway, NJ at the age of 83. Jaswant was born in Mumbai, India on May 20, 1938. He was raised with 4 brothers and 3 sisters. After attending the University of Bombay, he followed his dream to come to the United States of America for freedom and opportunity. Jaswant worked and saved for the fare, and after 1 ½ months of traveling by passenger ship, he arrived in New York. He then began his American Dream.

He worked his way through college and graduate school. Jaswant attended universities in Utah, Ohio, and New Jersey. Jaswant married and settled down in New Jersey and worked as an engineer for over 5 decades. He retired in 2012 from the DEP of NYC after working there for over 25 years.

Jaswant lived his life as a public servant. He volunteered his time so that others would live a better life. Many of his brothers and sisters, nieces, and nephews emigrated from India to the United States. He also volunteered his time to the community through various organizations and was awarded a Lifetime Service Award by the Association of Indians in America. He enjoyed organizing and attending cultural events, many of which showcased Indian culture which he was so proud of.

He was an active member of Gujarati Literacy Academy of North America Inc., Association of Indians in America (AIA), the Society of Indo American Engineers & Architects, Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), Kapol Samaj of USA, and India Festival Committee (IFC) as well as many others.

Jaswant was also very active in the Piscataway community, where he's lived for the past 47 years. He was a Committeeman for over 20 years, with the Piscataway Democratic Organization. He served on the Piscataway Township Zoning Board and was an alternate for the Planning Board. He helped organize the first India Day Parade in Piscataway.

Jaswant is survived by his wife Chandrika, son Neil, daughter Lena, daughter-in-law Sheetal, son-in-law Rupal, 4 grandchildren, 2 sisters, 3 brothers, and several nephews and nieces.

A funeral service is scheduled for Thursday, July 8, 2021 from 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm at Franklin Memorial Park in North Brunswick, NJ. View a livestream at https://vimeo.com/571813244. In lieu of flowers or any donations in his name, we ask you to spend time volunteering to help the community just like he did for most of his life.

Arrangements are by The Crabiel Home for Funerals, 170 N. Main St.-at Riva Avenue, Milltown. You may sign the online condolence "guestbook" at www.crabiel.com