Memories of my brother Russell Casie Chitty - An Appreciation

By Ridley Casie Chitty

My beloved brother Anthony Michael Russell Casie Chitty, aged 79, was the eldest in the family of four siblings, comprised of three boys and one girl. Born to devout Catholic parents Dominic and Muriel Casie Chitty, who raised him in the love and fear of God, he was a father figure to us when we lost our father during the early years of our life. Russell was called to eternal rest on 12^th April which was Divine Mercy Sunday. His funeral took place on Monday, 13th April.

Russell was educated at St. Benedict’s College, Kotahena, and came under the influence of the Christian Brothers under whose direction the school was maintained. He grew up in the shadow of St. Lucia’s Cathedral, where his spiritual life was nurtured and his family roots were deeply planted for nearly four decades. As a young boy, he served faithfully as an altar server, a role that reflected his devotion to God. On Christmas day, when the Colombo Chetty choir went around singing carols to the houses of the Chetty community, my brother as the Manager of the Choir, performed his duties meticulously. The Country Gospel spirituals sung by Gentleman Jim were his favourites, and I have often seen him sitting meditatively beside the CD player soothed by the mellifluous baritone voice of Jim Reeves, as he sang those evergreen spirituals.

Professionally, Russell began his career at Standard Chartered Bank in the Shroff’s Department. The bank was fondly referred to as the “Chetty Bank,” as most of its employees were Colombo Chetties, a community to which he proudly belonged. His services were eagerly sought after to compere social events organized by the bank. After retirement, he joined the Daily Mirror in the Editorial Department, where under the mentorship of Louis Benedict who was then the deputy Editor of the Sunday Times, Russell honed his skills in the art of journalism—a craft he deeply respected and cherished.

Russell was admired by all who knew him. Calm, unassuming, and always prim and proper in his attire, he carried himself with quiet dignity. His interests were wide-ranging: he loved cricket, practiced yoga, and had a passion for martial arts such as Judo and Aikido. He also excelled in the art of exercising with Indian Clubs. He enjoyed going on long hikes and sharpened his mind by engaging in the game of chess, actively participating in tournaments at the YMCA. He was an avid reader who indulged in this pastime being backed by a mini library with books under a wide range of titles, and was very generous in lending to those who also showed an interest in such subjects.

Russell remained a devoted family man throughout his life. He was deeply attached to his beloved wife Shanthi, and to his two daughters, Rushani and Nedrine, and so he was to his grandchildren—the joy of his heart, to whom he was their beloved Papa.

Russell’s life was a testament to faith, humility, and love. His memory will remain a blessing to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We pray that the Lord grant him eternal light, the joy of beholding the blissful vision of His face, and that his soul rest in peace.

There will be a thanksgiving service to honour and celebrate his life.  We will be having a mass at St. Joseph’s Church Nugegoda on Saturday 18th April 2026 at 10 am.

We look forward to your presence and participation.



Wife and members of the family