Dhivian Navaratnarajah

Dhivian Navaratnarajah, born on July 27, 1942, in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, peacefully passed away on November 8, 2025, at Deltaview Care Home, with her beloved daughter and granddaughter by her side.

The youngest of five children, Dhivian grew up in a home shaped by strong Christian faith and guided by parents who were both respected teachers. She was predeceased by her older brother Thivianesan Ponnudurai and older sister Joy Ratnarajah, and is lovingly remembered by her sisters Sushila Niles and Premi Perinpanayagam.

From a young age, Dhivian shone as an exceptional singer, winning many competitions and taking on lead roles in musical productions. She later earned her teaching diploma and dedicated herself to a meaningful career as a music and English teacher in both Sri Lanka and Hong Kong.

She was married to Marcus Navaratnarajah on January 3, 1968 beginning a partnership marked by deep faith, mutual support and a life of ministry together.

In December 1974, Dhivian moved to Hong Kong after her husband, Marcus, was transferred to work with the YMCA. She continued teaching and also spent cherished years at home raising her daughter Tamara (Enakshi). In May 1987, the family immigrated to Canada, where she later worked in the insurance industry. Dhivian was predeceased by her beloved husband Marcus in 1994.

Dhivian’s Alzheimer’s journey in later years was challenging, but she faced it with the same quiet strength and grace that carried her through life. She is now at peace. She was known for her unshakeable faith, generosity, kindness, and the warmth she extended to everyone she encountered. Loved by all who knew her, she leaves behind a legacy of gentleness, hospitality, and steadfast devotion to her family and faith.

She is deeply missed by her daughter, Tamara Enakshi Osborne, her son-in law Don, and her treasured granddaughters, Rachel and Rebecca, who brought her immense joy.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms… I go to prepare a place for you.” – John 14:1–3

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, January 24th, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Broadmoor Baptist Church, 8140 Saunders Road, Richmond. We will have a live stream link available closer to the date

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all friends, relatives, and the wider community for their love, prayers, and support during this time. Deep gratitude is also given to the compassionate staff at Good Samaritan Deltaview Care Home, who cared for Dhivian with dignity and kindness throughout her final years.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Journey Home Community, an organization supporting refugee families—reflecting Dhivian’s lifelong spirit of compassion. https://journeyhome.donorsupport.co/page/Dhivian_Tribute2025