Hundreds of tributes have been pouring in for one of Laudium’s most astute businessmen,
Jayant Jhina, who passed on this past Saturday, April 3. Herewith, some of the tributes…
10 February 1937 – 03 April 2021
Preena Jhina Sundersingh, (daughter), Preena Jhina Sundersingh, (daughter), “Paps, as I affectionately called my father, made a huge impression on my life. As sad as it is to say good-bye, I celebrate everything he stood for. Most fathers clip their daughters’ wings, but my father made me fly. He encouraged me to travel alone from a young age, take pride in my appearance, reach for the sky in my career and cook to perfection. My childhood in New York is filled with memories of walking the streets of Manhattan eating pizza, bagels and cheesecake. More recently my kids had the joy of having their grandfather around and an endless supply of chocolate. He had a special relationship with my husband as they share common interests. He unconditionally loved my brothers, Samir and Mayur and couldn’t live a day without my mom. I close off with a recent quote from my father to my hubby, “We are all caretakers of the things we have. What is truly yours is the people you met, the places you’ve visited and the food you’ve enjoyed”. Rest in Peace Paps. We love you and will miss you.”
It is with great sadness that the Laudium community learnt of the passing of business legend, Mr Jayant Jhina. Born in Louis Trichardt, he later moved to Pretoria, where he spent most of his years in Laudium. He left South Africa in the late 70’s for a 5 year stint in New York, before yearning to return to the Laudium community. His love of construction manifested in his many building projects, including Jhina Centre, Jhina City (now HS Ebrahim Centre) and multiple family homes. He opened a clothing store, Jhina & Sons Imperial Outfitters, in 1971 and was instrumental in securing many well-known American brands including Converse and Lee Jeans among others. He also manufactured and distributed a variety of clothing and shoes. He owned multiple businesses over the years, from dry cleaning and vegetables to Laudium’s very first Pizza place, ‘Pizza Craze’.A well-known community man, he valued his daily visits to his tenants, store owners, friends and family. An entrepreneur and visionary with a love for travel who was always well dressed. He leaves behind his wife Prabha and three children Samir, Preena and Mayur. – Family and Friends
Shaheen Osman, “Uncle Jayant Jhina was one of Laudium’s pioneers and a well-respected member of our community. He will be dearly missed. My deepest condolences to the Jhina family for their loss.”
Mahomed Haroon, Haroon’s Printers
“It’s honestly such a sad loss to hear of the passing of Mr Jhina. He was a really good landlord to me and I’m sure other tenants would agree with me. I’ve been renting here at Jhina Centre for 30 years now. He was an amazing person and will be missed. My deepest condolences to the Jhina family. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.”
Asnath Malema, (the Laudium Sun office in Jhina Centre), “I’ve known Uncle Jayant Jhina for over 20 years. He was such a kind soul, and everyone who knew him would agree with me. He would always call to check in and make sure everything was fine. He was so understanding and helpful. He was not only the owner of Jhina Centre, but also a friend to all his tenants.
The Laudium Sun management & staff convey deepest condolences to the Jhina family. Our prayers are with you during this trying time. We were really saddened to learn that such a wonderful person had left this world. May uncle Jhina rest in peace”.
Hemantkumar Mistry
“To the Jhina family, I would like to offer you all and your immediate family, our deepest and most sincere condolences. May the soul of your father rest in peace.”
Dr Abdulsattar Aboobaker
“Heartfelt sympathies to the Jayant Jhina family on the loss of their patriarch. My relationship with Jayant Jhina goes back to our days in Marabastad. He was always a gentle person, very pleasant each time he visited me at my practice. He will be missed by all.”
Jaco Malan, Laudium FNB branch Manager
“On behalf of all the staff at FNB Laudium, we would like to send our heartfelt condolences to Mr Jhina’s family. Wishing you the strength to face the days ahead and wonderful memories to cherish forever.”
Harendra Gagjee,
“Heartfelt condolences to the Jhina and Kalan family on the passing away of Jayantbhai Jhina, a gentleman in the true sense. May his soul find the highest abode and pray that his soul find Moksha and Sadgati OM SHANTI SHANTI SHANTI”
Mohammed Abrahams, The Super Bake ‘n Take Family, “We are so sorry to hear about the loss of a good friend and admired community person Mr Jhina. Mr Jhina was an inspiration to all who knew him and admired for all the wonderful qualities that made him the special person that he was. He had intelligence, wit, charm and a caring heart that made him a great friend, landlord and advisor. His loss is a terrible tragedy for all who knew him and our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones. We will always be thankful that we had the opportunity to get to know him better and to call him a friend. We will cherish his memory for years to come.”
Shirish Gokal, “Deeply regret to hear of the demise of Jayantbhai. May Parmatma grant him eternal peace and give the family strength to bear this loss. Shanti Shanti Shanti – Shirish Gokal & Family.”
Shiraz Kana, “To the Jhina Family. On behalf of the Kana Family, we would like to express our deepest sympathies on your loss. We pray that his soul RIP and may you find peace and comfort in this difficult time.”
