KUCHING: Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, bade a solemn farewell on Monday to veteran journalist, James Alexander Ritchie, remembering him not only as a respected writer but also as a loyal friend and trusted chronicler of the state’s story.
Wan Junaidi paid his last respects at the wake service held at St Thomas’ Cathedral here, accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
They were received by Ritchie’s wife, Helen, daughter, Rebekah, his brother, George, and close family friends, Datuk Seri Jacob Ridu and Datin Seri Garnette, along with other relatives and longtime acquaintances.
Wan Junaidi recalled a deep and enduring friendship with Ritchie, one that began in their school days at St Thomas’ Secondary School, and which was further strengthened when he served as Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to Ritchie’s father, the late Datuk Seri John Ritchie, in 1968.
“I was treated not just as an officer, but as a member of their family. That connection formed the basis of a lifelong friendship with James,” he said.
The Governor also shared that he was due to meet Ritchie and his daughter, Rebekah, today, to discuss a biography Ritchie had been writing on his public life.
“We were looking forward to continuing the conversation. What was intended to be the beginning of a literary work has become the final chapter of a life,” he said.
Ritchie passed away on Saturday (May 3) at the age of 75.
A funeral service will take place on Tuesday (May 6) at 9:00 am at St Thomas’ Cathedral here.
