Mahesh Chandra Gupta, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home in Portsmouth, Virginia on July 17th, 2026. Born in Allahabad, India, one of twelve children, he remained deeply connected to his large extended family throughout his life. He earned degrees from Allahabad University and IIT Roorkee before moving to the United States to pursue a master's degree in city planning at the University of Michigan. That journey shaped a distinguished career as an architect and city planner. He served as Deputy Director of Planning for the City of Portsmouth, Chief Planner for Newport News, and Special Projects Architect for the City of Norfolk. His work also took him overseas, including teaching city planning in Penang, Malaysia, and helping design a new university campus in Kano, Nigeria. He cherished the friendships he made around the world and revisited many of them over the years.

Those who loved Mahesh remember his quiet, gentle presence, his thoughtful nature, and his wry sense of humor. As a young man, he swam in the rivers of India and captained his field hockey team. Later in life, he embraced new experiences with curiosity and heart. He took joy in cooking elaborate Indian meals, often spending entire Saturdays preparing food for friends with spices sent from his sisters. His creativity shone in painting, in folding delicate origami birds, and even in designing a welcoming addition to the family's home. He had a sweet tooth for hot Krispy Kreme doughnuts, jalebis, and Hershey's Kisses. He enjoyed Sudoku puzzles, tinkering on his computer, and never stopped cheering for University of Michigan football. Above all, he treasured his family. He loved returning to India and spending time with relatives and found his greatest joy in time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 52 years, Margaret Phillips Gupta, his daughter Anita Gupta Hurwitz and son-in-law Will Hurwitz, by his cherished grandchildren Kate and Owen, by his sister Kusum Gupta and extended family in India and the United States. His kindness, warmth, and creativity will be deeply missed.

The family will receive friends at their home from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 25th, 2026. Arrangements are being handled by B.W. Foster Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.