Priyadarshani (Navaratna) Sandanayaka

Preeni Sandanayaka, 55, of Northborough passed away surrounded by her family, on Friday, March 18^th, 2022.

Preeni was born in Kandy, Sri Lanka on August 8^th, 1966, the daughter of Karunaratna and Bisomenika (Dissanayake) Navaratna.  She was raised and educated in Sri Lanka, attending Mahamaya Girls’ high school in Kandy, and receiving a BS degree from Peradeniya University.  She immigrated to the United States in 1992.  In 2001 she moved to Northborough and accepted a position as a Montessori teacher educating and nurturing young minds. 

Preeni leaves behind her husband of 30 years, Vincent Sandanayaka; her two daughters she loved so much and was so proud of, Udani and Dulani Sandanayaka; a brother, Gemunu Navaratna in Sri Lanka and a sister, Pushpanjali Wijesinghe in Australia; nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends both here and around the world. 

A devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend, Preeni dedicated her life to her family and her community.  She was kind and generous, with a bright smile and big heart.  Preeni leaves behind a large community of friends who loved her dearly. She was an invaluable leader of the Sri Lankan community here in New England. Whether she was planning fundraising events for the local Buddhist temple, organizing her school reunions, or creating cultural shows for her community,  Preeni was always the first one to volunteer.  When she was home, she loved to work on her garden and spent time with her beloved dog Sammy. Preeni also travelled around the world and made (and kept!) friends from across the globe.

A gathering to celebrate Preeni’s life will be held Saturday, March 26th from 11AM to 2PM, followed by her service at 2PM in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.  Cremation will be held afterwards at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name can be made to the New England Buddhist Vihara and Meditation Center, 162 Old Upton Road, Grafton, MA 01519.