Sojan Thomas (61) of Fairfax, Virginia passed away peacefully at Reston Hospital on September 26 after a courageous battle with cancer.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Sherly Thomas; his sons, Roby Thomas and Joseph Thomas; daughter-in-law, Ashley Thomas; and his mother, Thressiamma Thomas. He is also survived by four brothers and four sisters.

Sojan was born on July 6, 1954 in Kerala, India to Thressiamma Thomas and Prof. S.L. Thomas. He grew up in a large and loving family, the eldest of nine siblings. He excelled in science and trained in Chemical Engineering at the Birla Institute of Technology, followed by a Master’s degree at the Indian Institute of Technology in Systems and Management.

He traveled the world during his work with the Tata Consulting Services and Petra Bank in Jordan. His dream of helping the world was fully realized when he joined the International Monetary Fund in 1986. After 27 years of service he retired as a Deputy Division Chief. He remained dedicated to helping others, and in many ways, was a big brother to all. Though he was involved in many charities, working with the Central Institute on Intellectually Disabled of India was the most near and dear to his heart.

Sojan remained strong, courageous, and loving even in the last months of his life. He will be deeply missed by his family, his many good friends, and colleagues.

The family would like to thank friends and family, Dr. Nancy Dawson, and the rest of Georgetown University staff, especially the superb nurses, for giving their loved one not only the best chance possible, but also attention and loving care.

Visitation services will be held on Thursday, October 1 from 3 to 8 p.m. at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA.

The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, October 2 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Andrew’s the Apostle Catholic Church, Clifton, VA.