Fr. Aloysius Patrick Carvalho, a senior Jesuit priest known for his lifelong service in education and mission work, passed away on May 6 at St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata. He was 96.
Popularly known as “Father Ally,” he spent more than 70 years serving the Church through schools, parish ministry, and mission work among the poor and tribal communities.
His funeral Mass was held on May 8 at St. Xavier’s College Chapel and was led by the Provincial of the Calcutta Jesuit Province. He was later buried at Dhyan Ashram, the traditional burial place of Jesuits in the region.
Born in Kolkata in 1929, Fr. Carvalho studied in different schools across India before joining the Society of Jesus in 1949. Though he had gained admission to engineering studies, he chose religious life instead.
He was ordained a priest in 1962 and began ministry in Howrah, serving poor families and Adivasi communities.
One of his greatest contributions was founding St. Mary’s School on Ripon Street, Kolkata, in 1967. He served as founder, principal, and administrator, earning a reputation as a disciplined but caring educator.
Former students remember him as strict but deeply compassionate, often personally helping struggling students continue their education.
Later, he worked in rural West Bengal, founding schools and mission centres for Santhal and Dalit children. In 1980, he established Shanti Sadan Ashram in Mirga, which continues to support children from poor communities.
Church leaders described him as humble, spiritual, and fully committed to serving others.
Fr. Carvalho leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, education, and service to the poor.
