Shila Rani Gautam née Parihar, 77, passed away in Norman, Oklahoma on September 5, 2026 surrounded by loved ones.

She was born in Prayagraj, India on January 2, 1949 to Vanaspati and Munni Parihar. She married Madhav Singh Gautam on May 31, 1965 and they immigrated to Oklahoma in 1972. She spent most of her working life as a daycare teacher, a role that reflected her generous heart. Over the years, she cared for, encouraged, and helped shape the lives of thousands of children. She gave them patience, comfort, and guidance, making each child feel seen, safe, and loved.

That same care extended far beyond her work. She will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, aunt, teacher, and friend. Her love was steady and practical: she fed people, comforted them, listened to them, and made room for them. To many, she was a motherly presence: strong, tender, and quietly dependable.

Above all, Shila found joy in nurturing and supporting her children and family. She also enjoyed gardening, cooking, knitting sweaters, and crocheting; simple acts through which she often shared her care with others. Shila’s legacy lives in her unwavering kindness, the children she guided, the people she cared for, and the family she loved so deeply. She leaves behind a memory of warmth, strength, and motherly love that will continue to comfort all who knew her.

Shila is survived by her children, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and one sister.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Positive Tomorrows in Oklahoma City: www.positivetomorrows.org/get-involved/donate