Today is seven (7) years since the day our dad, Ramchit Ramesh Thomas, passed away When he passed away on September 15, 2018, it changed all our lives not because we are unaware of what death is but because it added a whole new reality. Although he is physically gone, his presence is still deeply felt in our lives. Not a day goes by when he is not thought of. Time has moved forward, but the love, lessons, and memories he left behind remain with us as powerful as ever.
As I once wrote: “Dad was my hero.” That truth has not changed. If anything, with each passing year, I appreciate even more the man he was, the values he lived by, and the legacy he left for us. I miss him and we all do, but we know he is in no more pain, and he fought a brave fight, standing with integrity and courage till the very end. For me, I remember our conversations, his last words to me, his last hours, his final moments and all that came before that in the live he lived.
A Man of Integrity
Daddy lived by every message he shared with us. Preparation, discipline, honesty, and hard work guided everything he did. He believed in showing up, being ready, and following through. Those lessons still echo in my life every single day.
What few would know would be how committed he was to ensuring that there was electricity in Coromandel.
While I provide the image from the 1985 article, allow me to share snippets from it:
“A beautiful thank you card and letter were sent in to ACTION LINE recently from Ramesh Thomas of Southern Central Road, Coromandel Village, Cedros, for assistance he received from this column concerning the electricity supply he has been seeking from TTEC since 1972.”
“Thomas’ problem was carried in this column in March 1985…”
“Ramesh has applied for electricity supply since November 1972 for an electricity supply. Since then he has been applying to TTEC constituency office… He kept on applying and was called in during 1976 but was told his application was still in the office…”
“After being dated February 21, 1978 it was accepted as the first on the supply under the Rural and Remote Electrification Programme. It bore reference number D46/402/EC but up to now nothing had been done.”
“Yesterday, we received a beautiful thank you card and letter from Ramesh Thomas, to you and your Action Line team… My humble thanks for your noble intervention with TTEC. We have been waiting for electricity in Coromandel Village since 1972, but thanks to you our village has now been blessed with a supply.”
“It was with great delight I read your column in the Express on Monday March 11, 1985 concerning TTEC. Action was taken and our village was successful. May Almighty God bless you and your noble work always. Once again, very many thanks.”
“Thank you very, very much. —Ramesh Thomas.”
In my 2024 Father’s Day reflection, I wrote about how much he shaped me: “Dad’s love was not just in words, but in his actions, in his sacrifices, in his unwavering dedication to his family.” Those words still ring true because his example continues to guide how I live, love, and serve.
A Life of Giving
Those who knew him would know that this is who he was. Dad gave so much of himself—not only to us, his family, but also to the people around him. He always found a way to help, whether through his roles in the community or in the quiet, simple ways he supported those in need.
Those who knew him would be able to recall that the Coromandel Shiv Mandir was very dear to him and in the 20 years he served as President, he remained every committed to ensuring that the structure was continuously improved and the amenities too. Mom was always by his side and continues to be present in the Mandir. He wanted it to be a place where devotees who attended the Mandir- whether they were from the community or were visiting- could be in a safe space and worship in comfort. Over the years, the progress he made in realizing this dream became more and more evident. Thankfully, he was able to see a lot of it!
One story I did not share much is that last year when I began my playwright incubator’s course, the play I wrote earned its title from a part of Daddy’s life post-retirement. This play made it to the final round of staged readings in Barbados at the Daphne Joseph Hackett Theatre. The play is titled, “Shattered Dreams and Silver Linings”. It is a major undertaking but also one I will continue to work on to share my Dad’s story with the world.
In my 2018 tribute, I wrote: “He was selfless, dedicated, and disciplined. He gave of himself without ever expecting anything in return.” That is who he was at his core. Even when he was ill, he continued to encourage and support others. He taught us that true strength is not measured in what you keep for yourself, but in what you give to others.
The Little Things I Miss
When I think of Daddy, I remember not only the big lessons but also the quiet, everyday moments:
- His smile that could light up a room.
- His laughter that brought joy into our home.
- His encouraging words that reminded me of my own strength.
- His stories, filled with wisdom and sometimes humor, that connected us to our roots.
- The way he showed us to reason situations.
- The way he taught us to remain calm.
- His love for each of us.
- His passion for all that he did.
Those simple, ordinary moments are treasures now. They are reminders of his presence, even when he is no longer here physically.
His Legacy Lives On
In 2024, I shared that “Even though he is no longer here, I honour him by living the values he instilled in me—integrity, kindness, humility, and perseverance.”
That remains my daily goal. Every time I face challenges, I hear his words about preparation. Every time I choose kindness, service, or honesty, I know I am carrying him forward.
Dad would never want us to remain in sorrow. He would want us to live, to give of ourselves, and to walk with courage. That’s how I honor him—with my life, my choices, and my actions.
Forever Remembered
Daddy, we miss you dearly, but we know you are at peace. Your love continues to guide us, your lessons continue to strengthen us, and your legacy continues to shine through all who knew you. He was a gentle giant who touched many lives.
Thank you, Daddy. We love you. We honor you. We will never forget you.
We are grateful for all the time we had with our Dad! Physically gone but never to be forgotten! We are also grateful that we have Mummy with us! We are forever blessed to have them both as our parents!
Celebrating Existence 