Notre Dame University Bangladesh (NDUB) on Tuesday (September 24) organized a heartfelt memorial service in honor of the late Fr. Thomas McDermott, CSC.
Fr. Thomas, well known as Fr. Tom, was remembered with deep respect and affection by the university’s faculty, students, and administrative staff.
The program commenced at 12:20 pm with a touching song, “Morono Shagoro Pare,” which set a somber tone for the gathering. The event was conducted by Dr. Vhokto Kumar Biswas, Chairman of the BBA Department, and Prithwi Agnes Rozario, Lecturer of the English Department, who warmly welcomed all attendees.
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Fr. Patrick Daniel Gaffney, CSC, led the tribute by offering a garland to Fr. Tom’s portrait, honoring his life and contributions. At that time, he said, “Fr. Tom was one of the dedicated persons who sacrificed their lives in serving the humanity and enlightening people. We faced a profound loss as he left us unexpectedly. However, he will remain in our hearths forever through his service, dedication, and love.”
Following this, Dr. Fr. Subash Adam Pereira, CSC, Treasurer and Acting Proctor of NDUB, gave an insightful speech on Father McDermott’s life and legacy. He highlighted Father Tom’s tireless service, his dedication to his community, and his spiritual leadership. Afterward, Assistant Registrar Fr. Nitto Ekka, CSC, led the audience in a collective prayer for the departed soul of Fr. Tom.
Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Fr. George Kamal Rozario, CSC, shared the moments of Fr. Tom’s life, recalling his contributions to both the university and the broader community and emphasizing his impact on academia, spiritual growth, and social service.
A significant portion of the ceremony was dedicated to sharing personal memories of Fr. Tom’s friends, colleagues, and students, who took turns recounting their cherished moments with him. Dr. Fr. Leonard Shankar Rozario, CSC, Registrar of NDUB; Sr. Shagorica Maria Gomes, CSC, Deputy Director of Student Affairs; Prof. Golam Sarwar Chowdhury, Acting Chairman of the English Department; Prof. Dr. Parimal Chandra Datta, former Chairman of the BBA Department; and students Cyril, Ridhi, and Poushee took part in that portion. Their heartfelt words reflected Fr. Tom’s role as a mentor, teacher, and compassionate leader.
As the ceremony came to a close, attendees bowed their heads in silent prayer, offering their final respects to Fr. Tom. The event concluded around 2:00 pm, with refreshments provided for all participants.
Fr. Tom was a devoted priest whose life embodied faith, service, and compassion. Ordained in 1979, he made lasting contributions in East Africa, particularly in Kenya and Uganda, uplifting impoverished communities and mentoring youth. His leadership at the Holy Cross Lake View School and the Holy Cross Formation Program left a deep impact. As Director of the NDUB Language Center and a Member of the Board of Trustees, Fr. Tom touched countless lives with his wisdom and kindness. His passing on July 20, 2024, left a void, but his legacy of service and love continues to inspire all who knew him.
