Article written by Adrian David – September 29, 2020 in New Straits Times
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One of the most dedicated old boys of the La Salle schools fraternity, Don Darrell Augustine Jayasekare, lost his battle with cancer.
Don Darrell, who had just celebrated his 52nd birthday with family and friends on Sept 20, died at his home in SS2 at 12.54pm last Saturday.
His trademark was his instant captivating and striking broad, gleaming smile whenever he met someone, thanks to his decades of customer care service in the food and beverage industry.
Don Darrell was the Malaysian Federation of Lasallian Alumni Associations (MFOLSA) honorary secretary, board chairman of managers and governors of La Salle Sentul and La Salle Sentul Old Boys Association honorary secretary for a good number of years.
Following wake services at his home the last two nights, Don Darrell was given a funeral mass at the St Francis Xavier’s church in Jalan Gasing, before being cremated at the MBPJ crematorium in Kg Tunku today (Tuesday).
It was attended by scores of old boys, teachers and La Salle brothers who adhered to the Covid-19 pandemic’s standard operating procedure.
Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, Most Reverend Julian Leow Beng Kim offered blessings for Don Darrell at the wake service.
The deceased left behind wife Sue Ellen Chong and sons Don Dhilan, Don Nielsen and Don Melvin, siblings Denita, Derwin, Wendy and Raymond and grandmother Alawathie Jayasinghe.
Don Darrell is the son of the late couple Don Charles and Merlin Jayasekare.
His eldest sibling, sister Denita Jayasekare, 53, said Don Darrell had sought treatment at hospitals since early this year.
“He was a gem of a brother, often not only helping the family but society at large with his charitable work.
“He was popular among the La Salle christian schools from all over the country as a caring, obliging, big-hearted and overly-generous person,” said Denita.
Don Darrell was also a long serving staff in the food and beverage (F&B) industry, with his last employment as F&B head of Suria KLCC Sdn Bhd.
Former Franciscan Club of Kuala Lumpur president James Sia credited Don Darrell for his untiring contributions to assist the less fortunate.
“He was always ever-ready to help those in need and was magnanimous in charitable and social work. We will surely miss his presence,” said Sia, who is also an MFOLSA committee member.
Former La Salle Sentul principal Rev Bro Ambrose Loke commended Don Darrell for his selfless services.
“No words can express how eternally grateful we are to you for your love, loyalty and dedication to your alma mater and the La Sallian fraternity.
“May Almighty God bless you for your services to mankind in general. We are forever grateful to you,” he said.