Fr. George Hilarion Thakur, SJ was born on 23 July 1955, in Bettiah, Bihar. He died at Asha Deep Community, Muzaffarpur, Bihar, on 16 December, 2023. The funeral Mass on 18 December at the XTTI chapel was attended by his family members, relatives, people from Bettiah, Patna and elsewhere. The main celebrant was Archbishop Sebastian Kallupura of Patna, offered the Mass, assisted by Archbishop Emeritus William D’Souza, SJ, and a large number of priests.

Fr. George was simple, straightforward, humble and approachable. He was warm and friendly towards guests and visitors. He had a great sense of duty and sensitivity towards his co-workers. He maintained a cordial relationship with them. He was kind, empathetic and caring, and had concern for their well-being. While he was at Latonah parish, Bihar, he was actively involved with a deep sense of commitment in serving the people, creating a positive impact and nurturing a spiritual environment in the lives of individuals and the parish community.

He had a great devotion to the Blessed Virgin. Never would a day pass by without him reciting the Rosary in the parish or with a small group of families. Marian devotion became a source of spiritual guidance for him and the parish community. Music had been part and parcel of his life. He loved singing and playing the tabla on various occasions.

– Jose Thayil, SJ