More than four decades of leadership.
Dennis Cooray was born on 23 August 1919 and educated at Royal College, Colombo. He joined the Ceylon Naval Volunteer Force in 1942 and later rose to the rank of Captain in the Royal Ceylon Navy.
A grandson of Sir James and Lady Peiris, he was a founder member of the Home and attended its inaugural meeting in September 1966. He served as Chairperson from August 1968 to November 2010.
Pioneering programmes
Captain Cooray introduced forward-looking initiatives for people with disabilities including rehabilitation, family support, resettlement and housing programmes. His approach focused on helping people remain connected to family and community wherever possible.
International contribution
His influence extended beyond Sri Lanka. In 1995, the Dennis Cooray Day Care Centre was launched in Faisalabad, Pakistan following support he provided to a community-based rehabilitation project.
A legacy of integrity
Captain Cooray was respected for his trustworthiness, service and commitment to the welfare of residents. At the time of his passing, he remained Patron of the Home.