Dr. Heramba Prasad

Dr. N. Heramba Prasad, born on March 22, 1947, in Thanjavur, India, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2024, at University Hospital in Syracuse, New York, surrounded by family and friends. He was the beloved son of Sabapathy Narasimhan and Kamala Doraiswamy.

A devoted physician and educator, Dr. Prasad began his incredible and lasting career at the Jawaharlal Institution of Postgraduate Medical Education Research in India. Upon coming to the United States, he began his residency in Illinois. Dr Prasad dedicated his life to the art of healing and the pursuit of knowledge. As Head of the Residency Program at University Hospital for many years and an Attending Doctor in the Emergency Department, he guided generations of medical professionals with his steadfast dedication and passion for teaching. His mentorship left an indelible mark on those privileged to learn under his care. He was a speaker and attendee for many medical conferences throughout the country. On multiple occasions, he was able to bring humor to his presentations, dressing up as characters including, the 2,000 year old man and Tina Turner.

Dr. Prasad is lovingly remembered by his siblings, Janaki, Sundararaman, Dorai, and Anuradha; his children, Beverly Olsen (Arthur), Michael Prasad (Heather), Yasmine Bogart (Nicholas), and Marissa Prasad (Christopher); his nine treasured grandchildren, Karen Ann, Dylan, Amanda, Penelope, Zoey, Oliver, Asa, Clementine, and Hermione; and niece Beverly, who he cherished more like a daughter.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Prasad found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid cook whose culinary creations brought people together, a poet who wove words into beauty creating several publications and research studies for generations to come, and a lover of comedies whose laughter could brighten any room. His smile was infectious, and he carried a knack for sharing jokes that uplifted those around him. 

Dr. Prasad’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched as a healer, teacher, and family man. For his students, family, colleagues and friends, he was always ready and willing to be a sounding board. He offered advice and wisdom where warranted and created a safe space for others, without fear of judgment. His family takes solace in knowing he is reunited with his wife, Barbara Prasad-his unwavering partner in life whom he loved deeply for over 30 years. 

Services will be held at Newcomer Cremations & Funerals this Saturday, January 4, 2025. Calling hours will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with services immediately following. A light gathering will take place afterward at the Doubletree Hotel in East Syracuse for those wishing to share memories.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Dr. Prasad’s honor. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and inspire kindness in all who remember him. 

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