Vale a true legend in Lankan journalism: Louis Benedict – By Lawrence Machado
I had the pleasure of working and learning at The Sun Weekend under the amazing Louis Benedict who was one of the most talented and humble journalists you could meet. He had a great writing talent which could move the hardest heart.
An alumni of St Benedict’s College, Kotahena, Louis wrote and subbed at speed with extraordinary eye for spotting errors, improving articles and producing eye-catching headlines, all under the heady pressure of three or four editions each day.
He wrote for several publications including the Catholic Messenger and inspired many where ever he worked. Until his health started failing, Louis worked at The Sunday Times Group where he continued to nurture and inspire journalists.
Never one to say no to anyone, Louis helped hundreds of journalists throughout his 50 year plus career and I am glad we got back in touch again last year.
He was also generous with his purse distributing whatever he earned to those in need. He was loved by all, regardless of their positions.
He always greeted you with kindness, enjoyed meeting friends, reading, and music, though his eye sight was failing.
Most of all, he loved his God and was a true Christian in every way. Even when he was treated badly by people he trusted, his faith never wavered and he stayed strong.
May your precious soul rest in peace and God grant strength to your wife Marie, family members and army of friends around the world. You will be missed. Till we meet again.
BENEDICT – Louis Joseph Julien, Senior Journalist of The Sunday Times/The Daily Mirror and formerly The Sun. It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the death of Louis Benedict, President of the People’s Movement for the Rights of Patients (PMRP) on April 22, 2025: precious husband of Marie, son of the late John Emmanuel and Florence Nightingale Benedict; son-in-law of the late Dominic and Rexalene
Andradie; brother of the late Dr. George, the late Rienzie, the late Timothy (Elmo), the late Rita, the late Therese, Marie and Rose. Funeral: Thursday, April 24.
