Three months ago, the little town of Colwyn Bay in North Wales mourned the irreparable loss of one of its beloved citizens. Back in Sri Lanka, her sudden demise shocked, saddened and devastated her family, friends and all those who knew her, from all walks of life.
Since moving from London to Wales, Jayanthi was well-known in the legal field and among the Sri Lankan community as a dedicated worker, a loving personality and a great friend. With her kindness and ever willing lending hand, she touched the lives of many. She gave comfort, inspiration and consolation to those in their difficult moments of life.
Twenty-eight years ago I remember this young lady, coming to Washington D.C from Sri Lanka to look after her cousin who met with a serious automobile accident. She cared for her for six months at her bedside and nursed her at home at the cost of an attractive job offered to her in the judiciary. She was able to convince the then Chief Justice of the priority of a family need and got a postponement. Later she returned to Sri Lanka and served as a magistrate until she moved to England.
More recently, I recall how she travelled to London from Wales, quite a distance, several times to care for her good friend who was disabled. Amidst all her busy schedule, constantly she found that little time to be in touch with her family and friends around the world.
Jayanthi possessed great human qualities, which commanded the admiration of all those who knew her from her school days at Visakha Vidyalaya and at Law College. Her lending hand and kind words gave comfort to many. She was the strength behind her family. She was the darling of her friends. Today we all miss her. The sorrow is immense. The loss is irreparable. Our sadness cannot find comforting words.
Her beloved husband Bandu and her loving daughter Savini will find solace in the golden memories she left behind.
May she attain the ultimate happiness of Nibbana.
Stanley Liyanapathirana |
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