Obituary of Joseph Anthonydoss, S.J (66/47)

Died in Kurji Holy Family Hospital on 10.04.2025

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.
(2 Timothy 4:7-8)

These words hold good for Bro.Tony, who had been silently suffering for the past two decades from a particular type of cancer. Tony was a friend, a Jesuit companion to me for the past 47 years, a relationship which I treasure and will hold in my heart those very happy memories of working together. All of us will agree with me that all of us shared some level of relationship with Tony, which we will treasure in our hearts. If there is one thing we all would have experienced was the presence of the smiling, simple, joyful person Tony was, ever ready to stretch out to any extent, he had no hesitation in burning the midnight oil to help people. He was a dedicated, committed Jesuit, who had a wide circle of friends, among all walks of life. He was a talented man who was a master in art, accounts, languages, Jovial, humorous, cheerful, always hiding the pain behind his smile. Tony always stood for values. He often said that values are never taught, they are caught. He sure embodied the values of friendship, love, understanding, caring, enabling, creativity and empowering. His loving word for a friend was Partner. He believed in team work, being inclusive, especially when he had to conduct the six weeks youth animators’ program at Navjyoti Niketan.

Tony was at his best at Christmas time, when he would spend long hours to make sure that the minutest art was in place in decorating the crib. He mingled with the workers and would ensure that he was around directing them to do as he thought it best. He had no difficulty in mingling with the workers, sit around with them and enjoy a joke or story. As an Administrator, Tony was very welcoming, generous with the guests who visited Navjyoti Niketan when he was the administrator or when he was the Minister at St. Xaviers. His hospitality knew no bounds; he touched lives by the manner in which he cared for the person who came to him. As the Brothers’ Coordinator, Tony organized many programs meticulously. He made sure to take the Brothers to different places, giving them a good relaxing time. He was a multifaceted person, who very creatively designed posters and cards with a wonderful handwriting. Tony was a very approachable person. I could share my heart with him. He would patiently listen and offer guidance which was very helpful. When the new diocese of Buxar was formed, he spent five years in Buxar helping build the diocese with his expertise in accounts and administration. He ensured that everything he did was perfect, he never believed in half- hearted work. Whatever he took up, he gave his ALL. His best time of work was at night. When all would be asleep his light would be burning and he would be working away. His rhythm of life was so different from all of us and often he was misunderstood, as no one would be aware of the long hours he spent working at night. It was my good fortune that our paths crossed and I learnt so much from this great person. Thank you, Tony, adieu my friend till we meet again on the other side…till then intercede for us and send us your blessings

Gregory Gomes, S.J.


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