She was a mother not only to her four children

Writing a few words of tribute to late Mrs S. Jayasundera, fondly known as Aunt Sommie, was an idea which came to me when she departed from this world just four months short of her 100th birthday.

She was the beloved wife of Dinapala Ukwatte Jayasundera and adored mother of four children - three daughters, Kusum, Sarojini and Dushyani and son Lalith.

Uncle Dinapala, who initially served in the Health Department and later at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, died on June 3, 1969, while Aunt Sommie’s death occurred just three days before her husband’s 50th death anniversary.

Ever since Uncle Dinapala’s untimely death, the burden of shouldering the responsibilities of the family fell entirely on Aunt Sommie’s shoulders. She courageously met all demands of the unexpected situation, and providing education to her young children. Making them responsible citizens was her focus and greatest priority.

The Jayasundera family lived down Fife Road, Colombo 5 and their house became a place we frequented during our schooling days, Lalith being a schoolmate.

In addition to caring for her children, Aunt Sommie was a super host, whenever we dropped in at their house. In fact, it became a favourite haunt for us especially after sport practices. She knew the days and times we would come to her house and we were never allowed to leave without being served tea, or at times, vegetable soup. Occasionally, she also used to share a joke with us or provide motherly advice if she had heard that we had been naughty.

She was also a popular personality amongst her neighbours. She never hesitated to get involved with any important activity taking place in the neighbourhood, if she felt she could voluntarily make a worthwhile contribution, to ease the burden of the organizers.

Her children and relatives were looking forward to organizing a simple ceremony to celebrate her 100th birthday, when she breathed her last on May 30, dashing the hopes of the family members and loved ones.

Aunt Sommie will be greatly missed by family, neighbours and loved ones.

May she attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana. Nimal L