BOSTON–Kishor A. Mehta, MD, a devoted husband, loving father, respected pediatrician, educator, and longtime physician leader in the Boston-area medical community, died peacefully at home of natural causes, surrounded by his family. He was 90.
According to an obituary posted on Facebook, Dr. Mehta was born in India on December 11, 1935, and from an early age knew he wanted to dedicate his life to caring for others through medicine. He completed his medical training in pediatrics in 1963 and began his career practicing pediatrics in Mumbai, India.
In 1966, Dr. Mehta moved to Liverpool, England, where he gained extensive experience treating critically ill newborns, including performing exchange transfusions. His expertise in neonatal care drew the attention of Children’s Hospital in Boston, prompting his move to the United States in September 1968. He subsequently joined Children’s Hospital and later Beth Israel Hospital, where he practiced from 1969 to 1972.
In 1973, Dr. Mehta joined Framingham Union Hospital—later known as MetroWest Medical Center—where he would leave a lasting legacy. Serving as Chief of Pediatrics and Neonatology for 27 years, he led numerous institutional firsts, including the establishment of the hospital’s first neonatal unit and first pediatric emergency room. Under his leadership, the pediatric department expanded from just a few physicians to more than 50.
Alongside his clinical work, Dr. Mehta was deeply committed to medical education. He held concurrent appointments as an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and Boston University Medical School, where he mentored generations of medical students and trainees, many of whom credit him with shaping their careers and approach to patient care.
Known for his wisdom, humility, and generosity, Dr. Mehta was frequently sought out for guidance by colleagues, friends, and families throughout Massachusetts and beyond. His counsel extended well past hospital walls, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service.
Beginning in the early 1990s, Dr. Mehta developed a strong interest in technology, particularly Apple computers. Well ahead of his time, he created digital content for weddings and family celebrations and became a trusted technology resource within the Indian community. He was admired not only for solving technical problems, but for his patience and ability to teach others how to solve them themselves.
Dr. Mehta is survived by his wife of 50 years, Dr. Jigisha K. Mehta; his son and best friend, Monik Mehta; and a wide circle of family and friends across the globe. His life and career touched countless lives, and his legacy of compassion, leadership, and mentorship will endure in the communities he served.
