Margaret Aruna Sumitra

Margaret Aruna Sumitra has gone home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She is not gone forever—she is alive in Christ, rejoicing in Heaven and reunited with her beloved husband of 44 years, David S. Sumitra.
Margaret was born and raised in Salem, India where she was cherished by her family and loved dearly by her younger brothers. From a young age, she was inquisitive, intelligent, graceful, and deeply devoted to learning. She studied classical Indian dance, Bharatanatyam, and was honored with the title of “Miss Salem” during her youth.

Margaret’s passion for education and knowledge was extraordinary. She earned not one, but two Master’s degrees in Economics, receiving her first degree at the remarkable age of sixteen. She later became a professor in Bengaluru, India before marrying the love of her life, David.

After moving to the United States, Margaret continued her calling as an educator and mentor. She taught at the University of Akron for more than 20 years, where her students admired her dedication, wisdom, and kindness. Her love for teaching and helping others extended far beyond the classroom. She helped many young men and women earn their GEDs, taught English as a second language to immigrants, and tutored countless students in college study skills. Margaret believed deeply in the power of education and inspired so many to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.

Margaret was also an amazing chef who lovingly prepared many different cuisines so her daughter would never feel left out. Through every meal she made, she expressed warmth, creativity, and deep love for her family. Her home was always filled with hospitality, comfort, and the comforting aroma of food prepared with care and joy.

Margaret was also a woman of deep faith, compassion, and selfless service. Even as her health declined, she continued volunteering at Summit Missions, always placing the needs of others before her own. She faithfully cared for her husband for 17 years until his passing, serving him with unwavering love, patience, and devotion.

She was preceded in death by her precious grandmother, Lydia Samuel; her beloved parents, Dr. Kribua Deenadayalan and Samuel Deenadayalan; her sister in law Dr. Prema Karunakaran and her devoted husband, David S. Sumitra.

Margaret leaves behind her loving daughter, Grace S. “Sweetie” Sumitra, whom she adored beyond measure, as well as Aimee Holley, who became family to her through her loving care and friendship.

She also leaves behind her beloved brothers, Samuel Karunakaran and his children and their families, as well as her brother David Chandramohan and his wife, Anusia and their children and families. Margaret additionally leaves behind several nieces and nephews whom she adored and loved as her very own.

Above all else, Margaret loved the Lord Jesus Christ with all her heart. Her faith was the foundation of her life. She was a woman of prayer, kindness, wisdom, grace, and deep compassion. She touched countless lives through her gentle spirit, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Margaret leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, strength, intelligence, and selfless devotion. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her Though her family grieves her earthly absence, they rejoice in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of her Savior.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

Family and friends are invited to visit Wednesday, May 20, 2026 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. at MissionView Church, 1320 W. Maple St. in North Canton. The service will follow at 1 p.m. at the church. Interment will take place at North Lawn Cemetery, 4927 Cleveland Ave. in Canton.

To share a memory of Margaret or leave a special message with her family, please visit the guest book below.