CHANDOR: He was not born in the USA but done to death there by a senseless dastardly killer. While the hearts of those he touched wept for him in Houston, his family, friends and all almost everyone from the soil he was from, Chandor in Goa, paid tribute to the boy who did so much and had much more to do.
Hundreds of villagers from Chandor, including many young people, held a candlelight vigil on Tuesday at Chandor Church to pay tribute, and for the earlier arrival of the mortal remains of John Dias, who has been killed in the USA recently.
This night vigil was organised by the youth and villagers in the late evening, wherein a special prayer was conducted for John’s soul. Inacina Dias, the mother of John, also participated in the candlelight vigil.
It may be recalled that John, a young and upcoming footballer from Chandor was killed in the USA, and his mortal remains are yet to come back to Goa for the final rituals. His mother, besides all the villagers are eagerly waiting for the arrival of mortal remains.
In the candlelight vigil more than 400 villagers participated and conducted a special prayer. Candles in hand, many had tears in their eyes.
Speaking to Herald, Marfo Mascarenhas, a close friend of John said that they are missing their humble friend.
“He was very much humble to all, and a good friend to many of us. We were shocked to hear of his death in the USA. Through this candlelight vigil we offer our prayers to his soul”, he stated.
He further informed that the mortal remains of John are expected to arrive in Goa in the next couple of days.
Ronny D’Silva, a villager, said that John was a good person, and was polite to all.
“He was a good footballer. John and his mother were very much hard-working. He used to play for Chandor and Guirdolim clubs”, he informed.
Meanwhile, Anthony D’Souza, Director of NRI Affairs said that his office has not yet received any correspondence from the official of the Indian Embassy in the USA, informing arrival of John’s mortal remains back to Goa.
“We have already been in touch with the concerned authorities in the USA, and are waiting for the reply”, he stated.
