Speaking at Singh’s funeral service at Rishikul Sanatan College today, his son Prashneel Singh says it was difficult to find the words to say goodbye to his father, describing his death as the loss not only of a father but also of the head of the family.
He says family was everything to Singh and, regardless of where his work took him, he always made time for his family.
Singh remembered his father as someone who was always willing to help others and did not expect anything in return.
He shares that his father helped educate members of his extended family, paid school fees and supported young people because he strongly believed education was a pathway to progress.
Late Agni Deo Singh’s career began in teaching before he became a prominent trade union leader. Education International records that he served as General Secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union from 1999 to 2006 and again from 2007 until 2022.
He also recalls childhood memories of travelling with his family during weekends and holidays, saying his father made sure his children remained connected to their roots, family and community.
Singh says Singh was equally devoted to his grandchildren and took great pride in his role as a grandfather.
He recalls how his father would tell the family that it was his job to spoil his grandchildren while their parents could take care of discipline.
Among the things Singh says he would miss most were his father’s voice, stories, good-morning messages and the reassurance that he was always there whenever his family needed him.
He says his father had also encouraged him to believe in himself, often reminding him that if he could achieve something, his children could do the same.
Singh says his had left his family with memories, strength, guidance and an example of generosity and service that they would carry forward.
Singh’s grandchildren remembered him as a loving and caring grandfather who always made time for them and supported their dreams.
They say they will miss his smiles, laughter and the special moments they shared with him.
One of his granddaughters says Singh always encouraged her to work hard and told her she could become anything she wanted in life.
His grandson says he never saw Singh as a Minister, but simply as his Nana (Grandfather), and says he will never forget him.
Meanwhile, Fiji Teachers Union General Secretary Muniappa Goundar also remembered Singh as a mentor, friend, guide and brother, saying his contribution to the union went far beyond the position he held.
Goundar says his friendship with Singh began in 1991 when both were teachers, adding their friendship later developed into a working relationship within the Fiji Teachers Union and eventually saw both men serve in the union’s leadership.
He says Singh helped shape the union’s work in areas including teachers’ welfare, membership services and support for members.
Goundar also highlighted Singh’s role in establishing the FTU’s in-house medical insurance scheme, saying it was designed to provide financial protection to teachers and their families during times of serious illness.
