Obituary of Angela "Swara" Mailvaganam

Link to Funeral Mass

Clicking on the link (above) will bring you to St. Barbara's facebook page (sign-in is NOT required).  A live-stream of the funeral mass will begin shortly before 10am on Saturday.

Angela Mailvaganam, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, wonderful mother-in-law, nurse, and friend, above all a great human being loved and adored by anyone and everyone who crossed her path, peacefully entered the embrace of her Heavenly Father on March 4, 2024, at the age of 82. Born to Francis and Mary Emelda Tisseverasinghe in Sri Lanka, Angela was the third eldest of ten children, growing up in a bustling household where she learned the values of care, faith, and responsibility early in life.

Angela's journey of faith and dedication began in her native Sri Lanka, where she embraced her Catholic roots with fervor and devotion. Her journey with God was the bedrock of her existence and she remained steadfast in her walk with Him through both joys and trials. She drew immense strength from her daily prayers. Her faith guided her through many chapters of her life, providing a foundation of strength and compassion that she shared generously with those around her enriching their lives.

In 1979, Angela, alongside her husband James, made the brave decision to immigrate to Boston, seeking a brighter future for their family. This leap of faith was grounded in a dream for a better life for their two adoring daughters, Sandra and Nilani. Angela's pride in her daughters knew no bounds; she marveled at their accomplishments and the individuals they are, attributing their success to their hard work and dedication. 

Angela's passion for caring for others extended beyond her immediate family. Angela was known for her warm smile, genuine kindness and loving spirit. She was a true friend to many offering a listening ear, a comforting shoulder and unwavering support to those in distress. Her calling to nursing was a testament to her innate desire to help those in need. Earning her nursing degree later in life, Angela served as a nurse until the remarkable age of 80. Her commitment to her profession was a source of fulfillment and joy, touching the lives of countless individuals with her kindness and empathy.

Her generosity knew no geographical boundaries. Angela often sent donations to orphanages both here in the US and in Sri Lanka, a reflection of her enduring connection to her homeland and her desire to give back to the community that shaped her.

Angela's role as a grandmother was a source of immense pride and joy. She cherished the unique bond she shared with each of her five grandchildren—three boys and two girls. Angela relished in the moments she spent as a roommate to each grandchild, creating lasting memories over dinners at her favorite restaurant, the Cheesecake Factory, or while engaging in thoughtful conversations at home. She was immensely proud of the fact that she shared her Birthday with her first grandson, Sebastian and her great grandson Jaden.

A lover of crossword puzzles, Angela maintained her mental sharpness with daily challenges, finding great satisfaction in completing each puzzle. This simple pleasure was a testament to her enduring curiosity and zest for life.

Angela Mailvaganam's legacy is one of love, faith, and service. Her life was a beautiful tapestry of devotion to her family, her faith, and her community. As we remember Angela, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and grace. Her memory will forever be a beacon of light and inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Angela was the beloved wife of the late James Philip Mailvaganam. She was the loving mother of Ann Sandra Premkumar and Miriam Nilani Lena. Mother-in-law of John Premkumar and Peter Jothy Lena. She was the proud Nana to Sebastian Lena, Philip Lena and his wife Steffi Lena, Nicholas Lena, Gabrielle Premkumar, and Isabelle Premkumar. She treasured her role as great-grandmother to Kobe Lena and Jaden Lena.  Angela was the caring sister to her siblings, Grace Geevaretam (Beulah), Godfrey Tisseversinghe, Philomena Mailvaganam , Lourdes Nadarajah (Ludy), her baby brother Joy Tisseversinghe, and her late siblings, Jeevamani Selvertenam, Bertram Tisseversinghe, Lilian Blackwell (Lily), and Fatta Tisseversinghe. 

The world may seem a little less bright without Angela, but her spirit will forever live on in the laughter of her grandchildren, the warmth of her friends' embrace, and the love that continues to flow from our hearts. May her profound spirituality continue to inspire and guide us in our own spiritual journeys.

A visitation for Angela will be held on Friday, March 8, from 4 to 7 PM at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, MA 01803. A funeral mass for Angela will be held on Saturday, March 9, at 10 AM at St. Barbara’s Parish, 138 Cambridge Rd, Woburn, MA 01801, friends and family are invited to gather at the Sullivan Funeral Home at 9 AM. Burial at Woodbrook Cemetery, 100 Salem Street, Woburn, MA 01801 following. 

For online guestbook, tribute video, and service information, please visit www.sullivanfuneralhome.net