Jyothi Rao McMinn
Jan 14, 1943 - Jan 10th, 2025- Birth Date: Jan 14, 1943
- Death Date: Jan 10, 2025
- Funeral Date: Unknown
- Location:
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Biography: Jyothi Rao McMinn died after a short illness. She leaves behind her daughter, Natasha McMinn Marlow (Cary Marlow) and grandchildren Miles McMinn Marlow and Miriam Helen Marlow all of Little Rock. She is also survived by her former husband Benjamin C. McMinn of Little Rock and a brother, K. Sashi Rao of Chennai, India and several nieces and nephews spanning the globe.
She was predeceased by brother, Wing Commander K. Kishore Rao of the Indian Air Force.
Jyothi received her primary and secondary education at Catholic schools in Bangalore and received a Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Bangalore University in Bangalore India. She was a renown Montessori teacher and teacher of teachers having taught in India, as well as Arizona, Georgia and Arkansas.
It was the chance then to do an extensive course in Montessori Education in Bangalore that became a life changer. The then visiting Course Director offered her all the necessary support and recommendations to win a job opportunity at the Montessori School in Little Rock, Ark, in the year 1969. It was an extremely bold move on her part to take up the challenge of going so far away from our parental home to establish herself. That was not something easy to do for any young girl or her parents in the Indian social environment of the 60s- 70s. Hence, Jyothi was a true trail blazer!
Private Family burial will take place in Little Rock, AR at a later date. Donations can be made to Arkansas Hospice Foundation, 14 Parkstone Circle, North Little Rock, AR 72116, who took wonderful care of her in her final days. Services under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com
Jyothi was a fine, caring and accomplished woman ; I had the privilege of "giving her away" as a stand in at her wedding when her ill parents could not make the trip from India.
Natasha, I think of you often and am aware how much your parents cared for and loved you, and how they and we have happily observed your growth and successes.
May the Lord bless you all.
Fred
So sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. She was such a unique individual, & I know how you will miss her. You are all in our thoughts & please send our regards to your dad too.
Fondly
Janice & family
I know she will be missed .
Only say I really feel for you and your family !!
It took me some time to fully comprehend the heartbreaking news of the passing of Ms. Jyothi McMinn, a beloved educator, mentor, and friend who touched countless lives with her wisdom, kindness, and unwavering dedication to teaching.
Jyothi was so much more than a teacher; she was a beacon of inspiration. She gave me the profound gift of my first teaching job, setting me on a path that shaped not only my career but also my life. Her unwavering belief in my potential, her wise guidance, and her steadfast support as a mentor are gifts, I will carry with me forever.
Her impact extended across generations, as Jyothi later became my son’s teacher, offering him the same encouragement, care, and support that had so profoundly influenced me. Her unique ability to connect with students and ignite a love for learning left an indelible mark not only on our family but also on so many others.
I hold dear the memories of those lovely dinners she hosted and the engaging conversations we shared during evenings after work in Bentonville. Jyothi’s passion for cooking introduced me to recipes and flavors I had never known before. It was a privilege to welcome her into our home in Charlotte, and though we moved away from Arkansas, we remained connected—a testament to the bond she nurtured with those around her.
Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, her countless students, and the friends and colleagues fortunate enough to have known her.
As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate a life lived with profound purpose, boundless passion, and a commitment to making the world a better place—one student, one moment at a time.
She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Poonam & Family