News Summary
Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley announced the passing of her mother, Raj Kaur Randhawa, via social media. Haley praised her mother’s strength and character, reflecting on the profound impact she had on her life and career. Raj Kaur Randhawa, who lived in the U.S. for over 50 years and was originally from India, passed on a significant date, July 4th, symbolizing her love for the country. The community has expressed condolences, highlighting her influence beyond just her family.
Columbia, South Carolina – Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley announced the passing of her mother, Raj Kaur Randhawa, who died on July 4, 2025. Haley conveyed the news via social media, reflecting on her mother’s strength and character.
In her announcement, Haley described Raj Kaur Randhawa as “the strongest, most courageous, unafraid woman I have ever known.” She shared that her mother was not only feisty and fun but also smart, witty, deeply faithful, and generous. Haley suggested that her mother may have chosen to pass on July 4th to “go out with a bang,” a nod to the significance of the day in American history.
Raj Kaur Randhawa had a deep appreciation for the United States, having lived in the country for over 50 years. Her love for her family was profound, and Haley credited her mother with instilling in her the strength and determination that have characterized her life and career.
Haley’s mother was actively involved in Haley’s life, including accompanying her to the voting booth during the 2024 primary elections. This past June, Haley also faced the loss of her father, Ajit Singh Randhawa, who passed away shortly before Father’s Day.
Background of Raj Kaur Randhawa
Raj Kaur Randhawa was originally from the Punjab region of India, where she studied law at the University of New Delhi. Following a period of residency in Canada, the Randhawa family moved to Bamberg, South Carolina, in 1969. Raj opened a boutique in the area, where she contributed to the local community while raising her family.
Nikki Haley served as the 116th governor of South Carolina from 2011 to 2017 and later as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations from 2017 to 2018. Throughout her public service and during her 2024 presidential campaign, she often spoke of the significant influence her parents had on her life and values.
Community Reactions
The news of Raj Kaur Randhawa’s passing prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes from the community, including comments from U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, who referred to Raj as “a terrific and wonderful lady.” This reflects the impact Raj had not just on her family but on the broader community in South Carolina.
As of now, Raj Kaur Randhawa’s age and the cause of her death have not been publicly disclosed. Her influence will be remembered through the legacy she leaves behind, particularly through her daughter, who continues to follow a path in public service profoundly shaped by her upbringing.
In conclusion, the passing of Raj Kaur Randhawa marks a significant moment for Nikki Haley and her family, who are mourning the loss of a remarkable woman. The Randhawa family’s immigrant story and contributions to their community will remain an integral part of their shared history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Nikki Haley
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Nikki Haley Raj Kaur Randhawa
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nikki Haley
- WLTX
- Google News: Nikki Haley mother death
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
