Yerradhoddi Surendranath Reddy

Yerradhoddi Surendranath Reddy, PhD, age 89, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, April 5, 2026, in El Paso, Texas. He was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished son and grandson, and loyal friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Suren was preceded in death by his parents, Yerradhoddi Rami Reddy and Parvathi Reddy. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Yerradhoddi Santha Reddy, and his daughters, Sireesha Y. Reddy and Sarmeesha Y. Reddy. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will continue to honor and cherish his memory.

Affectionately known as “Suren,” he grew up in the small village of Garampalli in Andhra Pradesh, India. He experienced hardship early in life, losing his mother at a young age. As the eldest of four siblings, he was raised by his grandfather, Malli Reddy, who instilled in him a deep respect for education and encouraged him to dream big.

Dr. Reddy became the first in his family to complete college and went on to earn his PhD—an extraordinary achievement that inspired many around him. Admired by his cousins and extended family, he was a pioneer who bravely ventured into the unknown. In the late 1960s, he emigrated to the United States with only seven dollars in his pocket, not knowing the language or anyone there. Through determination, courage, and unwavering belief in himself, he built a life defined by purpose and impact.

He completed his postdoctoral training and dedicated his career to academia as a researcher and professor. Over the years, he held positions at the University of Pittsburg, University of Rochester and Baylor College of Medicine, earned the prestigious NIH Career Achievement Award and later served as tenure faculty at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, from which he retired. Throughout his career, he taught and mentored countless researchers, fellows, and medical and dental students.

He was a consummate dreamer, a steadfast believer in others, and a tireless advocate for those around him. Suren generously supported many in achieving their educational and professional goals, often placing the needs of others before his own.

He frequently spoke with fondness of his lifelong friends and relatives, including Modhi Gude, Dan Trachowski, late Lowell Stone, Gangi Reddy, Bojji, Murali, and his many cousins, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

Suren was not defined by his work alone. He had a deep love for life’s simple joys—especially food, staying active, and maintaining his health. An avid runner, he embraced exercise with discipline and passion. Later in life, he took up poker, approaching it with the same focus and determination that defined him. Through dedication and skill, he went on to win tournaments and achieved qualification for the World Series of Poker, one of his many quiet accomplishments.

He was a man of many hidden talents, who in time learned to slow down and enjoy life for himself—something he had long given so generously to others.

Dr. Reddy’s legacy is one of resilience, loyalty, generosity and quiet strength. His life serves as an enduring example of perseverance, compassion, and the power of lifting others up. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments, but for the kindness and encouragement he gave so freely.

Rest well, Dad. Your legacy lives on through all the lives you touched. You lived the immigrant’s dream. You did a great job!