Lata Bhaskar Patil

Lata Bhaskar Patil, 73, of Ellicott City, Maryland, passed away on November 5, 2025. Born in Maharashtra, India to Keshavrao and Jaidevi Deshmukh as the eleventh of twelve very special brothers and sisters. Lata is predeceased in death by her husband Bhaskar M. Patil. She is survived by her loving daughters, Vrushali B. Patil and her husband Edward; Prachi P. Dumas and her husband Lawrence; endearing grandchildren Emmett and Beatrice; supportive siblings, thoughtful nephews and nieces; and an extended global family who will miss her deeply. Lata hails from a remarkable family legacy. Her late parents were extraordinary politicians and humanitarians in India who endured imprisonment and fought for freedom with Gandhi. Her father was appointed to political office by Nehru. Lata was raised with deeply held values of service and compassion, which she carried throughout her life and instilled in her children. As a young student, Lata studied English and developed a lifelong love of literature, later working for many years as a librarian. Her greatest gift, however, was as a consummate host; she prepared the most delicious meals, created warm and joyful gatherings, and found great happiness in bringing people together. Though Lata faced illness and was declared disabled early in life, she remained devoted to caring for her family. In her later years, as her health further declined and she encountered many medical challenges, she continued to find joy in reading, listening to Indian classical music, watching musicals and movies, and spending time with her daughters and their families.

A private family memorial service and cremation will be held November 24, 2025. The family suggests donations in Lata’s memory to the South Asian Mental Health Initiative and Network (SAMHIN) or a charity of your choice.