Leela Joshua Thomas, aged 103 and a resident of San Thome passed away on September 28.
Born on December 24, 1920, she lived through a century of change, witnessing British rule, wartime hardships, and the rapid modernisation of India.
She worshipped at CSI St. Thomas English Church. A woman of faith, she was known for singing her daily hymns early in the morning, filling her home with love and good food.
She extended her compassion not just to her family but to everyone around her. Her cooking was
legendary, and Christmas was not Christmas without her plum cakes.
She raised funds for underprivileged and for the church missions, selling her embroidered works,
homemade goodies like coconut burfis, adirasams, jams and pickles at church and festival
sales.
Neighbours often recall her kindness and generosity, whether it was sharing her baked
goods or offering a hug to cheer them up.
She was a mother to five children – 4 sons and a daughter, grandmother to 13 children, great grand
mother to 11 kids.
In her younger years, she was an avid tennis player, was great at card games and enjoyed strumming the mandolin.
In her later years, she remained mentally sharp, with a passion for reading and a wealth of wisdom to share.
The family resides at No.9, Rosary Church Street, San Thome. WhatsApp her grand-daughter at 98848 16552.
- Tribute by Leela’s grand-daughter Christina Karen.
