Henry Sy Jr. describes late daughter Jan Catherine Sy as 'joyful, kind, and patient' in his eulogy
Henry Sy Jr. paid tribute to his daughter Jan Catherine, who passed away last Mar. 18, in his viral eulogy.
The SM Prime Holdings chairman expressed his thanks to those who responded to his daughter's medical needs and those who offered prayers, saying that he and his family are "deeply touched and grateful."
Sy shared that her daughter Jan Catherine, who attended to their needs and made sure that they stayed healthy, "was truly a gift" during the lockdown.
"She was joyful, kind and patient with us her parents and the most wonderful to be around especially in the past few months even as she prepared for her wedding to Jack," he said.
Sy continued to share that it was Jan Catherine who inspired him to be more compassionate and appreciative.
"The proud man that I was was focused on 3 things of this earth. 1. Money w/c always was my main concern. 2. Relationships- perhaps my intense attachment to my family was also another form of idolatry. 3. Prestige- I took pride and satisfaction in accomplishments and being the best at what I do," he opened up.
"Jan loved God. and she loved everyone around her," Sy said. He also shared that Jan had a great deal of affection for the less fortunate and even had plans "to build places and spaces where those less fortunate can experience and enjoy things she herself being privileged, enjoyed growing up with," Sy continued.
"She often told me how it pained her to see the sufferings of the poor and how she wanted to be able to do her part in alleviating such," the businessman added.
Jan loved God. And she loved everyone around her. She had so many plans to build places and spaces where those less fortunate can experience and enjoy things she herself being privileged, enjoyed growing up with.
While it is hard for him to understand and accept why his daughter was taken from him at a young age, he and his family are "comforted" knowing that she is with God in heaven.
"My daughter Jan lives, and will never die. We can never lose her because she has eternal life in Jesus and no one can snatch her out of His hand," he said.
"Meanwhile, being here on earth, the pain of separation, as sudden and frightening as it was, is real and unbearable. If not for the grace of knowing God's promises, and the love and prayers and support of the body of Christ, we would be completely lost," Sy said.
He ended his eulogy asking for prayers for his family in this difficult time.
"Thank you once again and we give all glory and praise to our good God and Heavenly Father. May He remind us truly to number our days and grant us a heart of wisdom. Cherish His blessings of family and loved ones."
Jan Catherine, 29, was supposed to get married this April 2021.