Appreciations
View(s):I wish I could pick up the phone and say, ‘happy b’day Lokka’
Harry Stassen Jayawardena
Every year, for so many years, the first thing I would do as soon as I woke up on the 17th of August was to call my dear friend, Harry Stassen Jayawardena. Every single time, it started with, “Happy birthday, Lokka.” He would answer right back, “Thank you, Lokka.” It’s funny how we both called each other “Lokka”. That strange nickname became our little tradition, and it always made us grin.
This 17th of August, 2025, it was different. I could have made the call. I knew what to say. But Lokka is no more.
At the end of the day, if you really look at it, life is all about family and good friends. To most people,Harry was an enterprising and successful businessman. To me, he was the kind of friend you rarely meet, one whose loyalty had no limits.
On average, Harry and I spoke at least three times a day, exchanging stories and sharing good laughs. Many people thought of Harry Jayawardena as an extremely tough and even intimidating man, but I was fortunate to see a side of him that not many did, his gentle, kind, endlessly supportive ways. When the world seemed against me, Harry stood by me like a rock. That’s something I will never ever forget.
Harry Stassen Jayawardena never backed down from a fight, and he never feared anyone. Once you earned his trust, that was it; he would stand by you, regardless of odds or consequences, as I have experienced many times. If someone wronged you and Harry knew them, he would cut them off totally without a second thought. His loyalty was unbreakable.
Harry was such a legend that I often told myself that if Sri Lanka had just ten such men, the whole country would be in a different place today. His drive and commitment were unique. His affection for the people close to him was consistent, authentic and deep.
Harry understood the value of relationships. In times of triumph or in moments of sorrow, he was always the first to be there for me.
I wish I could pick up the phone just one more time, to hear your unforgettable voice and say, “Happy birthday, Lokka.” I can’t, and I can’t say, “Thank you Lokka, for your friendship, I miss you big time.”
Though you’re no longer here, your legacy and the memories we shared will always remain, guiding me through life’s ups and downs.
Krishantha Prasad Cooray
Your life was a testament to resilience and love
Gladys Bisomenike Wijayarathne Jayasundara
My beloved mother, Gladys Bisomenike Wijayarathne Jayasundara lived a life of love, dedication and unwavering strength. It has been 20 years since she left us, yet her spirit continues to inspire and guide our family and community.
Educated at Good Shepherd Convent Kandy, my mother was a woman of remarkable intellect and grace. She instilled in us the value of education and encouraged us to pursue our dreams with passion and determination. Her wisdom transcended the classroom, as she taught us lessons in kindness, humility, and the importance of hard work.
Married to my father, Jayasundara Wijayaratne, a former Chief Station Master of then Ceylon Government Railways, my mother played an integral role in our family’s life. Together, they created a nurturing home for their nine children, two daughters and seven sons, ensuring that we all had the support and encouragement necessary to strive for excellence.
After the untimely passing away of my father, she became the cornerstone of our family taking on every responsibility with unwavering determination and courage.
Amma faced numerous challenges, but her relentless efforts and boundless love transformed our lives. She instilled in us the values of hard work, integrity, and the importance of community. Her wisdom guided us through difficult times, and her nurturing spirit inspired us to strive for excellence.
My mother’s unwavering belief in our potential and her tireless dedication have shaped who we are today. We owe our successes to her strength and perseverance. She had the belief that her late husband was always behind her, giving her strength and courage from an unseen world.
Under her guidance, each one of us excelled in sports, becoming not only top cricketers and rugby players but also influential figures in society. As I reflect on her life and legacy, I am filled with gratitude for everything she has done for us and for the lessons she imparted. Her spirit lives on in each of us, reminding us to face life’s challenges head-on and to contribute meaningfully to the world around us.
Thank you, dear Amma, for everything you have given to us and your community. Your life was a testament to resilience and love, and although you are no longer with us, your memory will forever remain in our hearts. We honour you today and every day, as we strive to live by the principles you instilled in us.
May you attain the Supreme Bliss of Nirvana at the end of your Sanasara journey, darling Amma. You are missed beyond measure.
Your Youngest- Senarath Jayasundara
He epitomised kindness
BERNARD RUPASINGHE
Bernard passed away on August 8. He was my second daughter’s father-in-law.
He had worked in the Foreign Ministry and had served in Iraq and the UK.
He was soft spoken and the loving smile and kindness which overflowed from his heart will be missed by all of us.
Pahala Yagoda has lost a irreplaceable gentleman who led them in so many village societies.
His wife, son, daughter-in- law and sweet grand-kids will feel his absence for the rest of their life.
Words cannot express how sorry we are for the loss of Bernard. He was a truly a special person- a man for all seasons.
May God bless his soul.
Lal Kodituwakku
You left me with precious memories time cannot erase
VICTOREEN M. HASSAN
On August 25, it will be 17 years since God called Victoreen to rest. We got married on October 8, 1968 at All Saints Church Borella and spent a happy and peaceful wedded life with fun, laughter and joy for almost 40 long years.
I still remember what Victoreen told me when we decided to get married. “Kamil, marriages are made in heaven and if God wants our marriage to take place, no one can stop it. That will be the day God will unite us and we will be one.”
The promise we gave each other we always fulfilled. We prayed together from the first day we got married until her untimely death. It broke my heart to lose her. Victoreen was loving, caring and the greatest blessing in my life. Wherever she was, I was there for her, I walked beside her, loved her, and guided her and she was my one shining star.
Victoreen, you’re gone so far away and I am all alone. My days and nights are so lonely. The only consolation is that you are now in God’s hands. I remember the tender words you spoke to me and the loving things you used to say. You left me with precious memories time cannot erase. We thanked our lucky stars we found each other and were old enough to be so sincere and faithful.
There is not a day that passes without you being remembered. To know we will meet again someday will be my only comfort.
Thank you for the wonderful and generous sacrifices you made for me, our children and all the loving care and affection you showered on us. Darling Vicky, our special years when you were with me will not return but you still walk with me together. Till we meet again.
Sadly missed by your loving husband
M. Kamil A. Hassan
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