Jyoti's obituary
In loving memory of Muhammad Mashiur Rahman, known affectionately as Jyoti, Punk, and Uncle Joe, who gracefully danced through his final moments in a celebration of life on November 3, 2023, in Orlando, Florida.
Born in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in August 1975, Mashiur embarked on a journey of courage and determination when, in 1994, he immigrated to the United States. In 1999, he achieved a Bachelor’s in Computer Science from Southeast Missouri State University and, in the same year, met Rachel Daggs whom he would go on to marry in 2002. Mashiur dedicated over two decades to Washington University in St. Louis, leaving an indelible mark as the Director of IT at the Department of Environmental Health & Safety.
Mashiur's deepest devotions lied in the service of others, evidenced by his founding of The Banu Project, a community dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of Bangladeshi women and girls. As a leader in the Rotary Club of St. Louis Civilians, Mashiur’s influence was far-reaching, and earned him the esteemed Paul Harris Fellow Award, which will be awarded to him, posthumously, in 2024.
Beyond his accomplishments, Mashiur found joy in soccer, the St. Louis Cardinals, travel, family, Bangladeshi cuisine, dancing, and connecting with others. In his final days, he embraced life, surrounded by laughter and warmth, leaving a legacy of kindness and a zest for life.
To honor his dream, the Rotary Club of St. Louis Civilians is collaborating with The Banu Project for a special initiative supporting education for Bangladeshi girls. Please consider contributing to continue Mashiur's legacy: https://thebanuproject.wixsit…
Mashiur will find his resting place in Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, on November 21, 2023, at 2 pm, followed by a reception at Civil Life Brewing. Celebrations of Life in Dhaka, Bangladesh, are planned for 2024, embodying cultural practices with meals provided to those in need.
May he rest in eternal peace, and may his love and commitment to helping others endure through the initiatives he held dear.