03/12/2025
Velummayilum Foundation
FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENT
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Velummayilum Nithiyanantharajah, who passed away peacefully at his home in New Zealand on 30 August 2025. We are grateful that we were able to bring him home to England for his final journey. His cremation took place on Friday,
28 November 2025, at the Chiltern Crematorium in Buckinghamshire, in a private ceremony attended only by his siblings, in-laws, nephews and nieces.
Nithi was deeply cherished. He came from a family well known in our part of Sri Lanka and was fondly recognised simply as "Nithi". He was devoted to fitness, warm in nature, and instinctively generous, always ready to support others. Like many families, we were shaped by the long years of conflict in Sri Lanka; some of us built new lives in England, whilst he made the decision, one we now look back on with sadness, to settle in New Zealand. He embraced his life there wholeheartedly and lived proudly as a New Zealander.
His passing has reminded us of the importance of family, unity and shared strength. In bringing us together, he has left us with a lasting sense of togetherness. A Pooja and church service will be held in Point Pedro, Sri Lanka, on 28 December, followed by prayers and charitable offerings for vulnerable individuals in the community. In his memory, we are committed to supporting those in need in both Sri Lanka and Auckland, New Zealand through the Velummayilum Foundation, established in honour of our parents.
A book of condolence is available at the Velummayilum Foundation in Point Pedro, Sri Lanka for those who wish to leave their messages. We are deeply moved by the kindness shown by relatives and friends during this difficult time.
On behalf of Mayils (Kunchu), Chithra, Anatharajah, Krishnarajah, Jayanthi, our stepmother, and our entire family, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have shared in our grief and supported us with compassion. Nithi will remain forever in our hearts.
~ Daya Thayanandarajah (30th Nov 2025)
