08.04.1948 - 05.09.2020
Celebrating Rita
On 05 September 2020, a light that had shone so bright and brought immense joy and warmth to so many of us was sadly extinguished, taken before her time by the unrelenting Covid -19 virus.
Rita will live on forever, though, in the hearts of all who she touched with her bright smile, infectious humour and all-encompassing kindness.
Having begun her journey amidst the gentle greenery of Mullessary in god’s own country, Rita embarked on an adventure that saw her fulfil many roles - a loving daughter to Thomas and Mary, a beloved wife to John, a nurturing mother to Sheila and Shamin, a cheerful mother-in-law to Melvin and Nelson, and a doting grandmother to Gabriel.
Rita was the rock that John leaned on as, together, they ran their farm and vineyard in Nasik and raised two lovely girls, smiling in the face of fortune and adversity alike.
The second of seven siblings, Rita enjoyed a fun filled childhood in idyllic Kerala, building close bonds with her brothers Jose, Wilson, Davies and Anto and sisters Elsy and Kochurani. Many a joyous times did Rita spend, basking in the love of her dear siblings.
Rita loved her church in Nasik, being ever present for anybody in need, listening, caring and doing the Lord’s good deeds. Even as the unrelenting march of time delivered joy and loss in equal measure, Rita epitomised grace, humour and a zest for life that filled everyone with joie de vivre. “I’m not just a pretty face!”, she’d often say with a twinkling smile, diving with gusto into her next adventure.
Rita travelled the world, saw great wonders and experienced many different cultures. From Solihull in England, Israel in the Middle East to Egypt in Africa, Rita has been there and done that!
In death, the sweet little girl from Mullessary, our dear friend, mother, aunty and grandmother, will live on, a bright shining star, that we will look up to for hope & guidance, and to rejoice in the wonderful memories she leaves us with.
Go forth, Christian soul, from this world in the name of God the almighty Father who created you, in the name of Jesus Christ, who suffered for you, in the name of the Holy Spirit, who was poured out upon you, go forth, faithful Christian, may you live in peace this day, may your home be with God in Zion, with Mary, the virgin Mother of God, with Joseph, and all the angels and saints