In Loving Memory of Jyoti Choolani 

Jyoti Choolani, 69, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026, with her loving daughters, Neenu and Megha, holding her hands and surrounded by love. 

Jyoti was preceded in death by her husband, Prakash Choolani, and her son, Sanjay Choolani. She is survived by her daughters, Neenu Choolani and Megha Choolani; her son-in-law, James Russell; her sisters, Meenu and Kiran; her brother, Mahesh; and many extended family members, dear friends, and loyal customers who will forever treasure her memory. 

Born and raised in India, Jyoti spent much of her early life helping care for her siblings and serving others through volunteer work at her local temple. From a young age, she embodied compassion, generosity, and a deep sense of responsibility -qualities that defined her throughout her life. 

After moving to Portland, Maine, where she proudly made her home for 42 years, Jyoti built a life centered on family, hard work, and service. Alongside her family, she devoted decades to Peter Renney’s Fashions, where she became known as a master tailor. Her meticulous craftsmanship, particularly in men’s clothing, earned the respect and loyalty of generations of customers. 

Jyoti was a deeply caring and selfless woman who instinctively put the needs of others before her own. Whether caring for family, friends, customers, or complete strangers, she gave her time and heart without hesitation. Her greatest pride was always her family, and everything she did was done out of love for them. Following her first cancer diagnosis, she celebrated eleven years cancer-free, living life with quiet resilience and gratitude. When cancer returned, she met it with the same courage, resilience, and grace that had defined her throughout her life. 

She measured a life not by what she received, but by what she gave. She leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, kindness, and devotion to her family. Behind her quiet strength was a woman whose love was most often expressed through her actions rather than words. Those closest to her knew she was the heart of her family, the steady presence who held everyone together through life’s joys and hardships. Her love, sacrifices, and gentle spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. 

She will be deeply missed and forever loved. 

In accordance with Jyoti’s wishes, a private family cremation has taken place. Family, friends, customers, and all whose lives were touched by Jyoti are warmly invited to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, August 1, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at Peter Renney’s Fashions.