THE LOCAL community and beyond came together yesterday, on March 23 to bid farewell to Mr. Athula Withanage, a distinguished Clinical Director and Lead Clinician in General & Vascular Surgery at Withybush Hospital, whose journey ended on the 1st of March 2024.

The funeral service, held at Parc Gwyn Crematorium in Narbeth, was both a somber and a celebratory reflection of his remarkable life and contributions.

Born in Gonagalapura, Sri Lanka, Mr. Withanage’s illustrious career in medicine was marked by his compassionate care, surgical expertise, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of surgeons. His approach to medicine and surgery was not just about healing the body but also about nurturing the spirit of his patients and colleagues alike.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Withanage was a man of profound creativity, making significant strides in both literature and theatre. As an accomplished writer and actor, he shared his talents generously, enriching the cultural fabric of his community.

Mr. Withanage’s legacy is carried forward by his family, including his wife Nelum, his children Triona, Shane, and Dylan, his son-in-law Rajindra, daughter-in-law Sumudu, and his beloved grandchildren Kian, Liam, Shian, Riyon, Roshan, and Resan.

His role as a devoted family man stood at the core of his being, mirroring the love and dedication he showed in every aspect of his life.

The procession on Saturday began from his residence in Prendergast Haverfordwest at 11:25 am, making a symbolic final drive past the Withybush General Hospital, acknowledging his 31 years of selfless service before reaching the crematorium.

This gesture reflected the deep connection between Mr. Withanage and the institution he served with distinction.

The service was not only a local event but also a global one, with the funeral live-streamed to accommodate those who could not attend in person, including international viewers, notably from Sri Lanka.

This digital bridge allowed for a global gathering of those touched by Mr. Withanage’s life and work, emphasising the wide-reaching impact of his kindness and professional excellence.

Following the service, the gathering at Hotel Plas Hyfryd in Narbeth offered a space for reflections and shared memories, reinforcing the community’s solidarity and shared loss.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to Withybush General Hospital, a testament to Mr. Withanage’s enduring commitment to healthcare and the wellbeing of others.

These contributions will support the hospital in continuing to provide care that reflects the standards he set throughout his career.

As we reflect on Mr. Withanage’s life, we are reminded of the indelible mark he leaves on both the medical and broader communities. His legacy of compassion, dedication, and boundless achievement will continue to inspire and influence many.

Mr. Withanage’s life was a beacon of what it means to serve others with love and excellence, and he will be deeply missed.