Family members, friends and business associates are still reeling in shock after learning of the untimely passing of one of Laudium’s finest sons, Samir Jhina, this past Monday (Sep 19).
Tributes continue to pour in from all over South Africa, expressing great sadness and also condolences to the bereaved family. Samir will undoubtedly be remembered as being kind, warm-hearted and affable, toward whomever he came into contact with.
Samir, the son of Prabha and the late Jayant, brother to Mayur and Preena, husband to Clara and father to Tika and Devyani, was diagnosed with cancer 2 years ago, but bravely soldiered on and kept on smiling with whomever he engaged with, despite the pain he endured.
Samir’s sister, Preena, tearfully told the Laudium Sun, “Even though I am devastated by Samir’s passing, I know that he is in a better place. Samir had an impulsive passion for life, often not thinking of the consequences of the things he did. But the beauty of that personality lies in his spontaneity, living life to the fullest and enjoying the simple pleasures of a great meal and good company. Samir had the unique ability to connect with people and make whoever he spoke to feel special. I have such fond memories of Samir during childhood. We played together in the snow and the swimming pool – but it’s my teenage years with him that are the most memorable. Samir always ensured that he chaperoned and protected me. He was vegan for 9 years and I owe my comfort of vegan cooking and baking to him. His cancer journey became our journey too, as he shared every scan, blood test and doctor’s appointment with us. He loved his dogs and often sent us silly dog selfies or videos of himself and his dogs. Family gatherings will never be the same again, but everything he did for me will stay in my heart forever.”
Yael Geffen, a colleague of Samir said, “We lost one of the kindest most loyal ambassadors of our brand. A great husband, father, mentor, connector and Broker Principal. Samir was always cheerful, accommodating, loved life and food. He was a great cheerleader of mine.”
