Fr. Felix Tirkey died of a massive heart attack on March 2, 2020, at Asha Deep, Bathbanga, in Sahibganj District, Jharkhand. For the past two years, in spite of poor health, Fr Felix had been working for the upliftment of the Paharias, Santhals and others at the Socio-Pastoral Centre, and Arrupe High School as Director of the Boys’ Hostel and teacher.

Born at Jena village in Gumla on July 14, 1968, Felix entered the Jesuit Novitiate of Jisu Jaher at Dudhani in June 1992 after completing his matriculation. He did his Juniorate studies at XTTI, Patna, and his college studies at St Joseph’s, Trichy. After his Philosophy at Satya Nilayam (Chennai) and Theology at Parasmani and Vidya Jyoti (Delhi) Felix was ordained a priest in 2007. His first pastoral assignment was as assistant pastor in Hathimara Parish. From 2008 to 2013, Fr. Felix was the Director of the Boys’ Hostel and teacher at St. Xavier’s Hindi School in Sahibganj. He loved the children and took good care of them.

After his tertianship, Fr. Felix was appointed Headmaster of Krist Raja School at Nunbatta (2013-2018). Wherever he was appointed, he always shouldered his responsibility with enthusiasm and eagerness. A simple person and affable by nature, he could get along with everyone he met – students, hostel boys, staff, parents, and so on.

Fr. Felix was noted for his hard work, adjustability, friendliness and prudence in judging persons and happenings. He had a great impact on those who came in contact with him and is sure to remain alive in their memory. May his soul rest in the joy of the Lord!

• Fr. Paul Aquilina, SJ