Fr. Joseph Karunaidass Durairaj was born on 29 May 1946. He entered the Novitiate on 20 May 1963; was ordained a Priest on 2 May 1976 and took his Final Vows on 3 Dec 1981.

He worked as Superior, Minister, Principal and Warden in various schools, carrying out these official ministries with a personal touch for students and staff, while insisting on their disciplined behaviour. As the Minister of the house, he was generous and would gladly spend time for the community – himself cleaning, re-arranging or sweeping. He served as a Parish Priest, as well. As Administrator and Treasurer he served in ISI,Bengaluru, Papal Seminary, Pune and Loyola Academy, Alwal. Wanting to help people pastorally and spiritually he served both at Marian shrines in Velanganni and then at Poondi. He considered this service as more fruitful than all his administrative and other contributions! 

Fr. Karunai was a man of principles. He was always known for his commitment to religious life never known to compromise or to neglect. He lived a good, faithful and contented life as a Jesuit, ever grateful to Jesus and our Blessed Mother for his vocation and for his life. His life exhibited a serene attitude and a quiet peace within.  He was wise and pleasant, polite and prudent, friendly and benevolent.

In July ’23 he was taken to St. John’s Hospital in Bengaluru because of heart problems and in spite of the best efforts of the doctors he went back to his Creator on 29 Nov 2023. His mortal remains lie buried at Loyola Academy cemetery, Alwal, Secunderabad. 

– Joseph Sandanasamy, SJ