Fond memories that will be etched forever in our hearts

It is with much grief that we received the sad news of the passing away of Sithy Ossman after a brief illness on March 26 at her home in London.

Aunty Sithy was the daughter of the leading gem and jewellery dealer O.L.M. Macan Markar (MMC) and the dearly beloved wife of the founder and architect of the All Ceylon Muslim Congress who served as its First General Secretary, M.S. Ossman (Barrister –at-Law, London, Australia and Sri Lanka) who pre-deceased her.

Domiciled in London for the past 25 years, she invariably went out of her way to extend a helping hand (physically and financially) to whoever sought her assistance. She did not falter in her onerous duties and always maintained the common touch. She was a tower of strength and inspiration to her husband in all his political, social and cultural affairs.

She invariably shunned the glories of exalted office in whatever services and activities she did. Even though she was brought up in the lap of luxury and blessed with all the comforts in life, she never hesitated to extend a helping hand to anyone who sought her benevolence. She was humble, genial and affable to all her friends, colleagues and relatives.

I must also voice my sincere appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to my Aunty Sithy for the motherly care and affection bestowed on me after my operation for a cardiac arrest. Today, thank God, I am still alive because of her kindness. Aunty Sithy is no more but fond memories of her will be etched forever in our hearts.

Her funeral took place in London in the midst of her family members, close relatives and friends. She leaves behind her daughters Zuliha, Haniya and sons.

May the Almighty Allah grant her the eternal bliss of Jennathul-Firdouse.

Ameer A. Sanoon