Ramya Senanayake (Amarasekera) peacefully departed from this world on Saturday, January 27th, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 22nd, 1938, in Kandy, Sri Lanka, Ramya accomplished a Fine Arts Degree in 1963 and became a Visual Arts secondary teacher at Nugawela Central College.

In 1967, She began her life journey from London, England, to St John’s Newfoundland, eventually settling in Montreal, Quebec in 1972. Ramya is survived by her only daughter, Charmaine Amarasekera (Allan Winsborrow), grandson, Elijah Winsborrow (Sarah Ercoli), granddaughter, Seraiah Winsborrow, Great Grandchild-to-be, brother Indrajith Senanayake (Maria Cartagena), sister, Padma Senanayake, former husband Benedict Amarasekera and Tika, her 31-year-old African Grey parrot.

A former Medical Photographer at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Ramya faced health challenges and went on disability leave in 1990 due to rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Undeterred, she embraced the Art Therapy Program at Lethbridge Rehabilitation Center, reigniting her passion for artistic expression. Despite declining mobility, Ramya generously shared her time teaching at Visions sur l’Art, a non-profit organization supporting artists with disabilities. Her altruistic spirit extended to countless volunteer hours at SGI Canada, a Buddhist organization where she discovered purpose, freedom, and independence.

Ramya was cremated on Friday, February 2nd, at the Mount Royal Crematorium, surrounded by her family. A private celebration of her remarkable life is scheduled for Sunday, February 25th, at the Mount Royal Funeral Complex, where family and close friends will gather at 4pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in her honor to support Visions sur l’Art (www.vsaq.org) or the Shangri-La Animal Shelter in Franklin Centre, Qc (www.animalshelter.org).

Ramya's impact was profound, touching the lives of all who crossed her path. Her family, friends, and former colleagues deeply mourn her loss and will forever cherish her memory.

Rest in Peace, dear Mama.  You are appreciated.