The founder of Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company Mr. Merrill J. Fernando has passed away in Colombo this morning (20).
He was 93 years old when he passed away.
Mr. Fernando worked every day until he was 91 years old. He was spreading the message of providing pure Ceylon tea to the world until he was 93 years old.
His mission was simply linked to a strong desire to improve the lives of other people.
During his business activities, he did not hesitate to fight against the efforts of some to tamper with the standard of internationally renowned Ceylon tea.
His uncompromising defense of the quality of his product was due to his belief in value addition as the only means of benefiting the future of Ceylon tea.
Mr. Merrill’s body will lie in state on Friday, July 21, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and on Saturday, July 22, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 om to pay last respects to the body.
The last rites will be done at St. Mary’s – Pallansena Private Cemetery, Negombo.
