Some unspecified error has occurred.

Father James Ratnanayagam

June 11, 1926 - April 20, 2020

The Reverend Canon James Ratnanayagam passed away peacefully on the morning of Monday 20th April. He was almost 94 years old. He and his wife, Latika, celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary the previous day. Father James, as he was popularly known, suffered a stroke towards the end of March. After spending some days in hospital, he returned home where his condition gradually declined. He enjoyed a long and happy life and was a blessing to so many. A few hours after his death, his mortal remains were cremated at the Crematorium in Kanatte, Borella, following a brief service conducted by the Bishop and the Archdeacon of Colombo. Many have expressed regret that they were unable to pay their respects and to attend his funeral owing to the current restrictions. Consequently, his family have created this memorial page to offer those who wish to do so the opportunity to pay tribute to him and to share their memories of him. Please send your memories to ratnanayagamfamily@gmail.com and they will be added to Father James' memory page. Alternatively, click on 'Memories' below and follow the given instructions to register an account that will enable you to contribute directly to this memorial page. ___

More... Less...

  • Memories Memories
    One moment please, your post is being saved...
  • Image Image
    To attach an image drag & drop it here or
    One moment please, your post is being saved...
  • Video Video
    Upload a video on YouTube and paste the code here:
    One moment please, your post is being saved...
  • Condolences Condolences
  • Condolences Condolences
    One moment please, your post is being saved...

Filter: Show all labels

Viran Corea 2020-05-06 16:10:18 wrote:

The passing of Father James, marks the end of the earthly tenure of one who has been a kindly and comforting soul to thousands of people. He devoted himself to the tasks of his pastoral undertakings with a devotion and care that have inspired many. I recall listening to him many times, as a child in church and at the Thomian Chapel, which he loved very much. He mesmerised me with his excellent diction. His manner of articulation was truly exceptional, and I'd dare say many would have learnt good English (albeit incidentally and not by design) as much as they learnt scripture by listening to his sermons. He was a warm, kindly soul with excellent taste - especially for good music and drama, which he has bestowed on his three children. So much so, that his son David (Jayadeva to his friends at S. Thomas' College) has made it very much a part of his own life mission. Although his work on earth is done, the gratitude of those who benefitted from his selflessness and Christian service live on. He will be missed, because he's not one that can easily be forgotten, as he rests now, in the arms of Jesus.

Viran Corea 2020-05-06 16:10:18 wrote: The passing of Father James, marks the end of the earthly tenure of one who has been a kindly and comforting soul to thousands of people. He devoted himself to the tasks of his pastoral undertakings with a devotion and care that have inspired many. I recall listening to him many times, as a child in church and at the Thomian Chapel, which he loved very much. He mesmerised me with his excellent diction. His manner of articulation was truly exceptional, and I'd dare say many would have learnt good English (albeit incidentally and not by design) as much as they learnt scripture by listening to his sermons. He was a warm, kindly soul with excellent taste - especially for good music and drama, which he has bestowed on his three children. So much so, that his son David (Jayadeva to his friends at S. Thomas' College) has made it very much a part of his own life mission. Although his work on earth is done, the gratitude of those who benefitted from his selflessness and Christian service live on. He will be missed, because he's not one that can easily be forgotten, as he rests now, in the arms of Jesus.

Comments (0)

  • No comments.