He was a man in the fullest sense of the word
Marshall Perera, President’s Counsel, trade union leader and former Governor of Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Uva Province is no more. He completed 88 years of his life, just the day before his death. Marshall and I both had moved to Badulla - he from Kalutara and I from Wattala, to establish our home here.
Since 1973, Marshall had been my closest friend, associate and confidante.
He shared in our family’s happiness and times of grief. When we faced any problem or issue, he was always the first person to call over personally and offer his advice and ready assistance in whatever manner.
Though our ideologies and political affiliations differed we used to have very long and fruitful discussions on wide and varied subjects of common interest which proved to be very educative.
He was a MAN in the fullest sense of the word. Lawyer, leader, friend, confidante – a senior professional to guide us and assist us in our challenging professional lives. On many occasions he appeared as our own lawyer in personal actions.
Attired in red, he looked peaceful and content in death. Red, the colour of blood signified the purpose of his whole life. He lived among the working class and underprivileged people and led them from the front and fought for them in and out of court, so much so, it was inevitable that he had to be confined to remand prison for some time for having appeared for and supported JVP leader- Rohana Wijeweera.
He was always frank and forthright in expressing his views. Even on those issues where our opinions clashed, he fought cleanly and openly.
I am not alone in the high admiration of these unique qualities of Marshall, which are very rarely seen in today’s society.
He never wavered from his leftist policies and maintained it steadfastly throughout his life in whatever capacity he held.
On behalf of family and the lawyer fraternity of Uva, I extend this farewell wish to Marshall:
May the rains be gentle, and sun shine bright
May the winds blow softly – and earth rest light
On you, dear Marshall – every morn and night –
Your courage, grit - and the will to fight, Meeting life’s challenges – however tight
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Attempting anything – and doing it right
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Your life Marshall, was a sweet delight. Till we meet again.