Mumbai, January 21: As NASA astronaut Sunita Williams marks her retirement and return to Earth following her final record-breaking mission, public attention has turned to the close-knit family that has supported her historic career. Williams, who officially retired from NASA on December 27, 2025, after 27 years of service, has often credited her diverse heritage and the unwavering support of her husband, Michael Williams, for her resilience during extended stays aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scroll down to know more about Sunita Williams' father, mother, husband and family roots.

Sunita Williams' Parents

Sunita Williams was born on September 19, 1965, in Euclid, Ohio, to a family of diverse cultural backgrounds. Her father, Dr. Deepak Pandya, was a renowned neuroanatomist who emigrated from Jhulasan, Gujarat, India, to the United States in the 1950s. Dr. Pandya passed away in 2020 at the age of 88, but his Indian roots remained a significant influence on Sunita's life.

Her mother, Ursuline Bonnie Zalokar Pandya, is of Slovenian-American descent. During Sunita’s most recent extended mission in 2024-2025, Bonnie remained a calm presence in the media, stating that her daughter was "honored" to serve and was simply doing what she loved. Sunita is the youngest of three children, having an older brother, Jay Thomas, and an older sister, Dina Ann. Sunita Williams Retires: Indian-Origin Astronaut From NASA Retires After 27 Years of Illustrative Career, Check Her Milestones and Records.

Who Is Michael Williams, Sunita Williams' Husband?

Sunita has been married to Michael J Williams for over two decades. The couple met at the US Naval Academy in 1987, where they bonded over their shared passion for aviation; both served as helicopter pilots early in their careers.

Michael is currently a federal marshal in Texas. Known for maintaining a low profile, he has been described as Sunita’s "steadfast anchor" on Earth. During her recent nine-month mission, Michael noted in interviews that space is truly her "happy place," showing deep respect for her professional dedication and her Hindu faith.

Does Sunita Williams Have Children?

While the couple does not have children, they are well-known for their love of animals, particularly dogs. Their Jack Russell Terrier, Gorby, gained some fame of his own after appearing alongside Sunita on a 2010 episode of National Geographic’s Dog Whisperer. Over the years, their family has included several other pets, including Gunner, Bailey, and Rotor, whom they consider integral family members.

Cultural Roots and Faith

Throughout her missions, Sunita Williams has carried symbols of her heritage to the ISS, including copies of the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and an Om symbol. This connection to her roots is shared by her husband, Michael, who has been supportive of her spiritual journey. In 2026, following her retirement, Sunita visited India to reconnect with her father’s homeland, highlighting the lasting impact of her family's legacy.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 21, 2026 02:55 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).