It was an emotional day for the Tudravu family as they said their last goodbye to farewell their father, the late Permanent Secretary for Health, Dr Jemesa Tudravu, who passed away at his home last Tuesday.
Dr Tudravu's daughter Elenoa Tudravu spoken movingly about the passing of her father, who collapsed at his home in Lautoka.
Speaking about the incident during the funeral session at Centenary Church, Elenoa reflected on her father’s long-held belief that when God calls a person home, there is nothing that can be done to change that moment.
She says two unusual circumstances stood out that morning, with three cars parked at the family home, yet none could be used to transport him.
At the same time, she says four doctors were present, along with close family members including her mother, brother, sister-in-law, and a cousin, all making every possible effort to revive him.
Despite their efforts, he could not be brought back.
Elenoa says this was the “golden time” her father had often spoken about, believing it marked the fulfilment of his faith and acceptance of God’s will.
She expresses gratitude to God for the time the family was given with him and for the life he lived.
Elenoa has also humbly asked friends, relatives, and members of the community to accept his passing in their own way.
As Christians, she says the family remains hopeful, looking forward in faith to the anticipation of meeting him again on the glorious morning ahead.
Meanwhile, Dr Tudravu's sister Melania Louey says her brother was a true gentleman, filled with humility, wisdom, and faith.
She adds that he always put his family first, followed by the Church, the Vanua, and his work.
Louey says that he practised what he preached and was a deeply God-fearing man.
The late Dr Jemesa Tudravu has been laid to rest at the Lovonilase Cemetery in Lami.
