The death occurred of Kivipathi Francis Gunawardena of Kandewatte, Weregampita, Matara. He was 79-years-old and a well known social and religious worker.
He had been rewarded with many honourary titles including the Social Service Excellence Award, Jannma Bhoomi Vibhushana, Kavya Bhooshana, Kavya Shiromanie, Kavya prasada, Kavya kokila, Sri Rohana Pradeepa, Deshabandu Kivipathi and Ruhunu Ransalu.
Gunawardena was also the Chief Dayaka of the Sirimangala Pirivena, Uyanwatta, Walikaramaya and the Hittetiya Raja Maha Viharaya.
He leaves his wife Anula Malaweera add five children.