She lived a life of devotion

~ Nellie Louisa Abayasekara

Nellie Louisa Abayasekara (nee de Saram) was the daughter of J. Peter de Saram of No. 14, St Joseph’s Lane, Grandpass and of Mrs. Jane de Saram.

She was the third in a family of six, having out-lived them all. Her eldest brother was Paul de Saram. Next came her sister Mary who married a lawyer, Peter Caldera. After her came her brother Benedict de Saram and her sister Scholastica who married Dr. Richard Caldera and finally her brother Chevalier J.E.M. de Saram. Her father was a wealthy businessman and owner of the Grand Central Rubber Mills, Grandpass. She was a past pupil of Good Shepherd Convent, Kotahena where she excelled in her studies. She displayed a talent for painting, piano playing, flower making, dressmaking and cookery.

In her early twenties she married D.S.L.P. Abayasekara, a lawyer who subsequently became a judge. Her 100th birthday was celebrated in a big way on December 6, 2005 and even at this age she had a fantastic memory and was alert and aware of people and things.

She was a devout Roman Catholic and was faithful to her God and Saviour. She was able to say her prayers almost to the end of her life. She was a kind and generous person who loved and was loved by her children, grand-children, and great grand-children. She leaves behind two sons and two daughters, J.D. Abayasekara (Engineer), C.E.G. Abayasekara (International Consultant Law & International Trade, Banking & Finance), B.L. Abayasekara and E.A.B. Costa nee Abayasekara (music teacher). All her children are doing well mainly due to her efforts and encouragement.

Wherever you may be, dear mummy, may God bless you. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord. Let perpetual light shine upon her, may she rest in peace.

A.Abayasekara