Father was there for us to the very last

I still remember how, 25 years ago, on February 11, 1984, Daddy hugged me when I visited him in hospital. I hear his voice, so clear, calling me “Putha”, and so full of love. He passed away in his sleep that day. The shock I experienced is still fresh in my mind.

My father’s passing away was a severe blow to his loving wife Dotbelle Jayawickrama and his seven children. We remember how he loved and cared for us, and how we shared happiness and sorrow together. We remember how much he looked forward to the school vacation, because all his children were boarded.

Although you are no more, we cherish in our hearts the fondest of memories of you. Our special years when we were all together will not return, but within our hearts you will remain forever.

Father was always concerned about us, and made provisions for us to go on living happily. To me he was like a strong tree that I could lean on if I needed to. I remember him once telling me: “Whatever happens, I am there for you, Putha”. And he was, till he breathed his last.

He was a public servant of sterling qualities. Simplicity and sincerity were the keynotes of his lifestyle. His ability to move with people from all ranks of life is something we can all learn from. He was a person who went out of his way to help not only rural communities but also his close associates and friends.

My father hailed from a well-known family in Walasmulla.

The son of philanthropist D. D. A. Jayawickrama, he was closely associated with the temple that his father founded. He made an immense contribution for the temple’s upkeep and religious activities. All-night pirith chanting, followed by the morning and noon almsgiving to the monks, was a regular feature in our home.

Daddy and Mummy, we miss you very much, especially at our family gatherings. We will always treasure the sweet memories of your beautiful life and how it inspired us to live as a united family.

“May I be reborn as your child ever and ever in Samsara till you attain the Supreme Bliss of Nirvana”.

Your presence we miss,
Your memories we treasure,
Loving you always,
Forgetting you never.

By Janaki