Dr. Ananda P. Pathiraja

Martinez, GA – Dr. Ananda Pathiraja, of Martinez GA, transitioned peacefully in his sleep on the evening of August 15, 2023 surrounded by his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dr. Chandra Pathiraja; daughter Dr. Viranga Pathiraja (Don B Hettiaratchy); son Asanka Pathiraja, Esq; grandchildren Devin and Tarin Hettiaratchy; brother Dr. Ranjith Pathiraja (Chandra); sister Ranjinie Welgama; brother Dr. Emil Balasandiran (Nimmi), and extended Mayadunne family- Sarath (Seetha), Kumar, Sisira (Lakshmi), Kanthi, Bandula, Ravi (Sandya), and Dhammika (Renuka). He is preceded in death by his parents AR Pathiraja and Alice Perera, brother in law Yasa, and sister in law Shantha.

A man of deep humility, whose quiet, dignified presence commanded both respect and adoration, Dr. Pathiraja served his community and America's Veterans for over three decades. He was also a devotee of the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.

He sought neither fame nor fortune, accolades nor awards, but rather a life tethered to foundational principles of loyalty, kindness, faith, and tireless work ethic.

In his life, he wedded his soulmate, defied the odds and countless obstacles to realize his American Dream, and raised, guided and protected his children, all the while never losing sight of his humble origins in Sri Lanka.

Though he now belongs to the ages and will be missed by so many, his memory will live eternally through those he loved and those who were graced to love him.

The family will receive friends on Sunday August 20, 2023 form 2-4pm. The Buddhist service (Pansakula) will be on Monday August 21, 2023 at 3pm. The service will be available via livestream for those who are unable to attend at https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTY5MjM4MTA1MTI2NzQ2MSZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==

Location for both events: Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors (214 Davis Road, Augusta GA; 706-364-8484) https://www.thomaspoteet.com/obituaries/Ananda-Pathiraja/#!/Obituary

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations to the Nishantha Fund be considered: https://nishanthafund.educatelanka.org/