Merrill Fernando Cause Of Death, What Happened To Merrill Fernando? How Did Merrill Fernando Die?Who Was Merrill Fernando?
by Alaguvelan M
Updated Jul 20, 2023
Who Was Merrill Fernando?
Merrill Fernando was a prominent Sri Lankan businessman who gained international recognition as the founder and former CEO of Dilmah Tea, a popular tea brand known for its high-quality, single-origin Ceylon tea. Born on May 6, 1930, Fernando dedicated his life to promoting ethical consumption and building a sustainable tea industry in Sri Lanka. He was often regarded as a "tea hero" in Sri Lanka and beyond, due to his innovative and socially responsible business practices.
Fernando's love for tea began at an early age, as his father and grandfather were both tea planters. After completing his education, Fernando began working as a tea taster in Colombo. However, he soon became disillusioned with the tea industry's focus on bulk tea and low prices, which often resulted in poor wages for those who worked in the industry.
Determined to make a change, he founded Dilmah Tea with the aim of producing quality tea that would benefit everyone involved in its production, from the growers to the consumers. Fernando founded Dilmah Tea in 1988, with the philosophy of "business for a purpose." He was determined to produce tea that was not only of the highest quality but also sustainable and socially responsible.
He introduced the concept of "single-origin" tea, which means that the tea comes from a specific region or estate rather than being blended with teas from other regions. This approach ensured that Dilmah's tea was always fresh and that the unique flavor and character of each region's tea was preserved.
Beyond his work with Dilmah, Fernando was also known for his philanthropic work through the Merrill J. Fernando Charitable Foundation. His foundation supported various initiatives, including scholarships for students, healthcare for rural communities, and conservation projects. He was also a vocal advocate for ethical consumerism, believing that consumers had the power to create positive change in the world.
Throughout his career, Merrill Fernando was the recipient of numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the tea industry and society. In 2015, he was recognized with New Zealand's highest civilian honor, becoming a Doctor of Commerce, and in 2023 posthumously received the Oslo Business for Peace Award.
He authored a book titled "The Story of Ceylon Tea Maker: Merrill J. Fernando," which recounts his personal journey in the tea industry and his reflections on the future of sustainable tea production and ethical business practices.
Merrill Fernando Cause Of Death
A prominent figure in the Sri Lankan Tea Industry, Merrill J. Fernando, the visionary behind Dilmah Tea, peacefully passed away on Thursday (20) morning. At 93 years old, Fernando left behind a remarkable legacy, having built the Dilmah Brand into a tea empire driven by passion, quality, and an unparalleled love for tea.
The Dilmah Family took to Twitter to share the news, stating that Merrill J. Fernando departed surrounded by loved ones, and his generation would follow as he finds solace in the embrace of his Lord.
Renowned as a trailblazing entrepreneur, he achieved the extraordinary feat of introducing single-origin Sri Lankan tea to over 100 countries worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the global tea industry. In the early 1970s, Merrill J. Fernando laid the foundation of Dilmah Tea, revolutionizing the industry by bringing forth the concept of single-origin Ceylon tea.
But Dilmah Tea was more than just a business venture; it was a reflection of Merrill J. Fernando's profound devotion to tea and his heartfelt desire to share the unique flavors of Sri Lanka with the rest of the world.
Beyond his commercial success, Merrill J. Fernando was also celebrated for his philanthropic endeavors, demonstrating his commitment to preserving the authenticity of Ceylon tea and improving the lives of those involved in its production. His contributions earned him not only the admiration of tea enthusiasts but also the utmost respect and admiration of Sri Lanka and the global tea community.
What Happened To Merrill Fernando?
On July 20, 2023, the world bid farewell to Mr. Merrill Joseph Fernando, a visionary entrepreneur and the esteemed founder and CEO of Dilmah, the renowned Sri Lankan tea business. For Sri Lankans and tea enthusiasts alike, "Dilmah" has always been synonymous with the finest premium tea, a testament to his unwavering commitment to quality.
Throughout his life, Mr. Fernando dedicated himself to the art of tea, tirelessly promoting Pure Ceylon Tea until the remarkable age of 91, and he continued to do so until his passing at the age of 93. His departure is an immense loss not only for the country but also for his beloved family and the entire business community.
In this challenging time, our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Merrill J. Fernando. The brilliance of this visionary creator of the Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company resided in his steadfast faith, unwavering integrity, and boundless love for both tea and family. He pursued his passion for honesty and excellence with utmost dedication, urgency, and kindness.
Merrill Fernando's influence extended far beyond Sri Lanka, leaving a significant impact on a global scale. The Dilmah Tea Company extends an invitation to all to join in commemorating the exceptional life he led.
On July 20, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Saturday, July 22, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., his remains will rest at the Respect Funeral Parlour. Subsequently, a private burial will take place at St. Mary’s – Pallansena, Negombo.
Mr. Merrill J. Fernando will always be remembered for his profound humanity and his remarkable achievement in personally and passionately uniting the world behind the noble cause of Ceylon Tea with its unmistakable essence of Taste, Goodness, and Ethical Purpose—a cause he ardently championed for an incredible 73 years.
How Did Merrill Fernando Die?
The world mourns the loss of the legendary teamaker, disruptor, and compassionate servant, Merrill J. Fernando, who peacefully passed away on July 20, 2023, in Colombo, surrounded by his loving sons and grandchildren.
The heartbreaking news was shared on the Merrill J. Fernando Charitable Foundation page of the MJF Foundation, a testament to the profound impact he had on countless lives.
A true disruptor at heart, Merrill J. Fernando's life was driven by his humble rural upbringing in Sri Lanka and the Christian values instilled in him by his family. His unwavering passion, dedication, love, and kindness continue to serve as an enduring example to all, demonstrating how one can strive for greatness while never neglecting to make a positive difference in the lives of the less fortunate.
His legacy lives on through two generations, who are steadfast in carrying forward the vision of "the Dedicated Founder." Merrill J. Fernando's commitment to his cause remains unyielding, even as he peacefully rests in the embrace of his beloved Lord Jesus. His extraordinary achievements inspire producers and future generations alike, motivating them to uphold the principles of honesty and dedication in the realm of tea.
His groundbreaking work in disrupting the exploitative colonial tea industry left an indelible mark, ushering in a paradigm shift towards ethical business practices long before such principles gained their current recognition. His efforts forever changed the lives of producers around the world.
While many may be curious about the cause of Mr. Merrill Fernando's passing, the exact reason has not been disclosed at this time, leaving the world to remember him for the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.
Merrill Fernando Cause Of Death - FAQs
Merrill Fernando passed away on July 20, 2023.
Merrill Fernando passed away in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Merrill Fernando was described as a legendary teamaker, disruptor, and servant.
The news of Merrill Fernando's passing was published on the Merrill J. Fernando Charitable Foundation page of the MJF Foundation.
Merrill Fernando's life was determined by his humble rural Sri Lankan upbringing and the Christian family ideals that surrounded him.