Dr. C.J. Devasia (Sebastian), 90, the father of Father Sanjai Devis, V.C., died Nov. 11 in India.
He was “a man of charity, prayer and learning,” said Father Devis, pastor of Our Lady of Peace Parish, Williamstown.
Dedicating much of his life to helping the sick as a private practice physician, Dr. Devasia was a well-respected and influential area doctor, Father Devis said. After initially retiring at age 65, Dr. Devasia soon found he couldn’t leave his patients behind and began a new practice that focused on charitable care and healing for the area’s poor, a ministry that was active up until four years ago.
A daily Mass communicant and member of the local Saint Vincent de Paul Society, Dr. Devasia saw his everyday works and faith as inseparable.
He was “friendly with the poor, priests and nuns,” Father Devis said.
At age 75, Dr. Devasia began studying for a master’s degree in theology, spending four hours every Sunday evening at the local diocesan center in classroom education. Five years later, the doctor achieved his goal, and began hosting prayer and theological discussion groups with friends.
Dr. Devasia was predeceased by his wife of 30 years, Anna. In addition to Father Devis, Dr. Devasia is survived by children Jose Prince, Shirley, Sheril and Sr. Shine; and grandchildren Dennis, Geo, Bobby, Jake, Sebastian and Daniel.
A funeral took place Nov. 12 in the Diocese of Palai, India. A Memorial Mass was held Nov. 17 at Our Lady of Peace Parish.
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