She had a heart of gold, always ready to help anyone in need

I first met Aprille when I joined Methodist College in 1954 – when I was almost ten years old. We were in the same class and I well recall how friendly she was on that first day - a friendship that continued over the next few years we were in school. Her mother Muriel Aiyadurai was a teacher in school, much loved by the students.

I would often go to visit Aprille at her lovely home where her parents would always welcome me and her other friends, and we would have a hilarious chat about school times and end up with a delicious meal. She also shared my love for animals and we had fun with our pets when we visited each other! When I lived down Milagiriya Avenue, Aprille would also visit me with mutual friends and we would dash down the road and walk along the beach enjoying the sea! Even when we had our holiday breaks we would meet up almost every week.

In later years, Aprille and many others in my class left for Peradeniya and we couldn’t meet up as much as we used to.

After I was married and busy with my two children it wasn’t too easy to meet. Then Aprille got married to Freud and left for London. I well recall visiting her in London where she worked as a teacher, and how she took us around to some well known museums and art galleries. After Freud died and she returned to Sri Lanka we began meeting again.

Aprille was one of the cleverest girls in our class but she was very unassuming and never boasted about her achievements. She had a heart of gold and was always ready to be there for anyone who needed help. These characteristics remained all through her life.

I will always remember Aprille as one of my dearest friends, who always cared for me in a kind and loving way. I know she is safe in the arms of Jesus and looking down at us smiling that wonderful smile! May she rest in peace with the Lord.