(In this “November Special Series,” RVA’s writers share memories of loved ones they have lost — a celebration of their lives, recalled with a tinge of sadness and the hope that one day there will be a reunion…… in a place where there is no death, no suffering, and where God Himself will wipe away every tear. – Editor)
November is a month of remembrance—a time when we recall the faithful departed with love, gratitude, and prayer. It is within this sacred space of memory and mourning that I recollect, with a heavy yet grateful heart, the life of my beloved brother-in-law, Mr. Sudhir Tirkey, who left this earthly home on 3 November 2025. His passing left not only a void in our family but also a quiet echo in the hearts of all who knew him. The grief of burying him was excruciating—yet it was also filled with profound love. A large gathering of relatives, friends, neighbours, and colleagues stood around him to say their final goodbye. It was a testament to a life lived meaningfully, gracefully, and generously.
This reflection is not merely a tribute—it is a humble attempt to remember, honour, and cherish the man he was.
A Life Rooted in Service and Commitment
Sudhir worked with dedication as an employee in the Railways. His profession was not just a means of livelihood; it was a commitment to steady labour, responsibility, and discipline. He carried his duties with a calm sincerity—never seeking praise, recognition, or applause. For him, work was a daily expression of honesty.
He approached life with a simplicity that was both disarming and inspiring. There was no trace of pretension in him. He valued people over possessions, relationships over appearances, and sincerity over display. He loved being among people, and people loved being around him. His presence brought warmth—not by loud expression, but by gentle consistency.
Simplicity and Generosity: His Everyday Virtues
What set him apart in this complex world was his heart. He was a man who gave quietly and loved deeply. Whether it was offering a helping hand to someone in need, sharing his time, or even providing a comforting word, he did so without hesitation. His generosity was unconditional and without expectations.
He never hoarded anything for himself—be it material things, time, or affection. He truly believed that life is richer when shared. Those who interacted with him remember his effortless sociability. He could speak to a stranger with the same warmth he talked to a close friend. His nature drew people to him—naturally, gracefully, and without effort.
A Friend, a Mentor, and a Brother
For me personally, he was more than a family member—he was a companion in life’s journey, a brother whose affection I always felt, and a mentor who saw in me possibilities I had not yet recognized.
He encouraged me continuously—sometimes through words, sometimes simply by the example of his life. He was a voice of reassurance when I doubted myself and a voice of correction when I needed direction. He did not impose; he gently guided.
In my religious life and mission, I often found myself returning to his advice. He reminded me, repeatedly, that vocation is sustained not by grandeur, but by sincerity, humility, and faithfulness. His own life reflected these values.
To have someone who sincerely wishes your growth, who rejoices in your progress, who supports your calling—is a rare blessing. I was fortunate to have that blessing in him.
Moments of Presence and Companionship
When I look back, memories come like quiet streams—simple, ordinary moments that now feel precious. Conversations over tea, shared laughter at family gatherings, lengthy discussions about life and faith, his reassuring nod in moments of confusion—these moments now live in memory as sacred treasures.
Sometimes, the true worth of a person is discovered not in grand achievements but in everyday gestures—the way they listen, the way they smile, the way they stay present. Sudhir was fully present and authentic. His companionship carried no demands—only acceptance and warmth.
A Farewell Wrapped in Tears
Burying him was one of the most painful duties I have ever performed. The finality of death presses hard on the soul when the person we lay to rest is someone we love deeply. As we placed him in the earth, tears flowed—tears of loss, gratitude, memory, and love.
And yet, the crowd that gathered to say farewell spoke clearly: his life touched many. He had built bridges of friendship, kinship, and respect. People came not out of obligation but out of love.
There was grief in the air—but also honour.
There were tears—but also deep remembrance.
His life was not loud—but it was full of meaning.
Prayer for His Eternal Peace
As November invites us to pray for all who have gone before us, I remember him with tenderness. I pray for his eternal rest—that he may find peace in the embrace of God, where there is no pain, no sighing, no sorrow—only light, joy, and fullness of life.
Though we laid him to rest, love does not end. Grief is the price we pay for love—and I accept this grief with gratitude, because it tells me what he meant, and still means, in my life.
In remembering him, I do not only recall the pain of losing him—I celebrate the blessing of having journeyed life with him.
May his soul rest in peace.
May his memory inspire us.
May his life continue to guide us.
