Dilmah Merrill founder J Fernando dies at 93 surrounded by family
The founder of the popular Sri Lankan tea company Dilmah has died at the age of 93.
Merrill J Fernando was surrounded by his children and grandchildren when he passed away on Thursday in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
He is known for his iconic catchphrase “try it.”
The tea company announced Mr. Fernando’s death saying that his “greatness was in his invincible faith, his integrity and love for tea and family.”
“With devotion and urgency he pursued his desire for integrity and quality with humility and kindness,” the company said.
Merrill J Fernando was surrounded by his family when he passed away on Thursday
The founder helped create the brand’s first single origin tea in 1988 and worked until he was 91 years old.
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