Vijaya Lakshmi Vellanki passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026. She spent her last 6 months with family in Helena, Montana.
Vijaya was born on August 16, 1940 in India. She and her husband Dr R. Rao Vellanki immigrated with their children in 1968. They lived in North Canton, Ohio where they raised their family and were active members of the Indian community. Vijaya loved entertaining family and friends. She cherished spending time with her grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband and sons Kishore and Mohan Vellanki.
Vijaya will be missed by many members of her family, including children Roy Vellanki (Padma), Latha Sri Vellanki (Andrew Pida); grandchildren Kevin Vellanki, Nina Pida (Luke McCulloch), Nicholas Pida (Jaycee Hamlin), John Pida; and great-granddaughter Mira June McCulloch.
We would like to thank the St. Peter’s Health Nephrology and Dialysis Clinic for their compassionate and professional care.
A memorial service celebrating Vijaya’s life will be held on January 24, 2026 at 9am at Anderson Stevenson Wilke & Retz Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to honor Vijaya’s legacy with a donation to Special Olympics of Montana or your favorite charity.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
9:00 a.m.
Saturday January 24, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
9:00 a.m.
Saturday January 24, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
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Noreen Raynor says
I worked with Vijaya at the old Shodair Children’s Hospital. She was a hard worker and very caring. RIP, Vijaya . 🙏♥️
Mary Runkel says
I worked with Vijaya at Shodair in the old brick building- she was caring and compassionate and always willing to give a hand. My sincere sympathy to her family.
Saundra Lowry says
I met Vijaya at the senior center when I worked at Rocky Mountain. She became a good friend and I admired her deeply. You will be missed Vijaya. May your final journey be sweet!
Mary Hall says
My sympathy to Sri and all the rest of family in the loss of Vijaya. Always remember all the good times you had with her. May she rest in peace.
Karrie Fairbrother says
Vijaya was the best chef and teacher of Indian cuisine! She was always patient and loving as she taught me how to prepare samosas, and their different fillings. Fond memories of being with her awaiting her grand children’s arrivals. She was a lovely lady.