An unforgettable teacher who moulded many lives

It is with a deep sense of gratitude that we write this short biography of our beloved teacher Kenneth Samaranayake, in appreciation of the services rendered by him over a period of 32 years, from 1954 to 1986 to our alma mater, St. Anne’s College, Kurunegala.

He passed away at the age of 89 years.

He was born on January 11, 1931. His father was a CAS Officer and lived at Kensington Gardens, Bambalapitiya. After his early education at St. Peter’s College, he proceeded to Madras and obtained a first-class honours B.Sc. degree from the Madras University.

On returning he joined St. Anne’s College, Kurunegala as a Science teacher and first taught Chemistry to SSC and HSC/University Entrance classes He later switched over to teaching Botany. Kenneth as a young graduate teacher was handsome and always immaculately dressed.

During the golden era of Rev Bro. Alban and Rev. Bro. Lawrence

Justinian as Directors, St. Anne’s had a reputation of having the best science teachers in the North Western Province. Mr. Samaranayake was one of them. He was an exceptional teacher who earned the respect of all. He taught with passion, loved the students and would provide them academic and emotional support

Dr. Jupiter Moonamale, one of his students in school says that he owes his success to Mr. Samaranayake for advising and encouraging him to sit for the University Entrance exam the third time after two failed attempts, at which attempt he was selected to the Medical Faculty.

In the late 60s, after the college was taken over by the government and the medium of education was changed from English to Sinhala, St. Anne’s saw a large influx of students from rural schools with little knowledge of English. Kenneth took over the responsibility of improving the standard of English among these students. His untiring efforts were rewarded by the College producing three medallists at All Island English Day finals.

He married Maureen Peiris, the Primary School’s Music Teacher in 1959.

No annual prize giving was complete without Kenneth and Maureen jointly producing, mainly Shakespeare playlets to be staged at these events which were greatly acclaimed by the audiences.

Even after school hours, most often as late as 6 p.m., Kenneth was seen in the school premises training students in extracurricular activities which included music and drama. He kept in touch with most of them even after they left school. Our association with him as a teacher was memorable and he was a true professional who left a lasting imprint in our lives.

Kenneth and Maureen were blessed with three sons and two daughters, all married and doing well in their respective fields.

Kenneth and Maureen celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with the entire family and friends on December 28. During this celebration he was seen singing baila and dancing. The same night he had the privilege of sitting together for dinner with his beloved children and grandchildren before his call to Eternal Rest the following morning.

May his soul rest in peace.