Pics/Report: Rons Bantwal

Mumbai, Nov 1: Fr Elias D'Souza of Kinnigoli said that the demise of Benedicta Rebello, affectionately known as Benny Bai, who left a unique mark across the social, educational and banking sectors in Mumbai, is an irreparable loss to society.

Speaking at a condolence meeting organised by the Konkan Association Charitable Trust (KACT), he recalled her as a simple, gentle and expert organiser who successfully led various institutions. He noted that her unparalleled service to the nurturing and growth of the Konkani, Tulu and Kannada languages would always be remembered.

Originally from Miyar in Karkala, Benedicta Rebello was an award-winning teacher and social worker. She served as the founder president of the Maharashtra Konkan Association (now KACT) and former director of Model Co-operative Bank. She was actively associated with the Mangalorean Welfare Association Mumbai, Konkani Sabha Mulund, Pask, Konkani Bhasha Mandal and several other organisations.

Prior to the condolence meeting, parish priest Fr John Britto and deacon John Serrao offered a Holy Mass for the departed soul at St Jude Church.

Senior stage actor Francis Fernandes Cascia said her commitment to building a harmonious society transcending linguistic and cultural boundaries would remain fresh in everyone's minds, adding that her leadership qualities and rational stand are an inspiration for future generations.

Lawrence Coelho, editor of Divo Konkani weekly, highlighted her unique contributions to the Konkani community. He praised her immaculate service-mindedness in taking everyone along and remembered her as a great well-wisher of his publication.

KACT president Leo Fernandes Jerimeri lauded her exemplary life and good deeds. He stated that the institution founded through her generosity is today actively engaged in serving the people, and the tribute paid to her is an acknowledgement of her selfless service and kind-heartedness.

Flora D'Souza Kalmadi from Jerimeri noted that as a teacher, she had brightened the future of thousands, and her married life stood as an ideal for today's youth. William D'Souza Vakola, Rons Bantwal, Dora Rego Amboli and Joy D'Souza Powai also spoke on the occasion and paid their respects.

Jessy D'Silva Mahakali, Diane D'Souza Virar, David Castelino Virar, Claudy Francis Monteiro, Paul Mascarenhas, John Mascarenhas Jerimeri, Jayaveera C Monteiro, Marcy Lobo of Nisha Travels, Clara Concesso, Suzanna Coelho, KACT vice president Walter D'Souza Kalmadi, and executive committee members B C Alva, Vincent Castelino, Lilly Leo Fernandes, John Rodrigues and Elias Pinto were present.

Heads, office-bearers and members of various associations in the city also attended the meet and offered floral tributes to her portrait.