Joseph Shelton Fernando: My model father, philosopher and friend

y father Joseph Shelton Fernando taught me about the principles of honesty and integrity when I was only a child. He spoke about the values of simplicity and humility; he believed that public service was a sacred trust to be held for the benefit of the people, and demonstrated a sense of duty beyond compare. Back then, it was all way beyond me. But as the years passed by, I realised the wisdom of what he was showing me. It stands me in good stead. And it is still an inner-voice that helps me discern right from wrong, just from unjust, in the daily journey through life. 
Joseph Shelton Fernando was a brilliant student who was in many ways, self-made. He made a success of his life despite its trials and tribulations, realising the potential of hard work and the power of endless determination. Having entered the University of Ceylon to study Western Classics at the age of 17, he went on to embark on a career which would cross the boundaries of disciplines, but always rose to the challenge. After joining the Ceylon Administrative Service in 1950, he went on to hold some of the most responsible positions including Assistant Land Commissioner, Deputy Director of Plan Implementation, Commissioner of National Housing and finally serving the Public Service Commission of the Western Province. In a brief stint with the international civil service, he served with the exemplary standards he set for himself during his illustrious career in the public service. 
J. S. Fernando was a man ahead of his time, with a vision of his own for the future. He guided many young people, with a firm belief in the significance of education and independence for all, especially women and girls. He guided my education and career through every step of the way, and enriched my learning with his contributions. His social life was extensive, and not a day went by without a visit from or to a friendly face. Through his bonds of friendship across all communities and people, he, together with my mother, transcended all distinctions – race or religion, colour or nationality – to truly celebrate diversity. With the modest earnings of a public servant at the time, he provided us with lives free from want, and went on to help everyone in need, to the best of his ability. He showed us what happiness there was in sharing what we had, in caring for the less privileged and in reaching out with a helping hand, with the gracious support of my mother. He would remind to treat everyone alike, from the most affluent and powerful, to the poorest and least privileged, with humanity and respect towards those who served us. He believed in the importance of being thankful and showing gratitude for every kindness. And he believed in high standards of discipline. 

"J. S. Fernando was a man ahead of his time, with a vision of his own for the future. He guided many young people, with a firm belief in the significance of education and independence for all, especially women and girls"

His love gave strength to the family, and the many sacrifices made for the children, are to be cherished and passed on to the next generation. He taught us to be true to the nation, even as he showed us, the world beyond it. He instilled in us the importance of faith, together with my mother, who stood by him through his long and blessed life, for which we are thankful. 
Daddy you were not only my father, you were also my guide, philosopher and friend. The end of your earthy existence, we believe, saw you into His eternal glory, and so we rejoice with you, in the words of your favourite hymn: ‘When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation, And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart. Then I shall bow in humble adoration, And there proclaim ‘My God’ How Great Thou Art.’ 
May you find eternal peace. 
Shyami Fernando Puvimanasinghe