22 July 2024| St Albans, UK [tedNEWS]
With great sadness we inform you of the passing of Marica Mirilov on Wednesday, July 17, following a sudden and brief illness. Born in 1966 in Slavonija, Croatia, she was the wife of Pastor Branislov Mirilov and the mother of Miriam, Nathasha, and Emmanuel.
As a Bible worker and pastor for the Cyprus region, Marica Mirilov confidently shared her joy in knowing Christ with others. It was an intrinsic part of her character to demonstrate loving care and concern for all, with a wish that they discover the joy she had in Christ.
Just before her passing, Marica was in the process of submitting her dissertation for her MA, a testament to her determination and passion for knowledge.
Daniel Duda, president of the Trans-European Division, expressed his deepest condolences to the Mirilov family during this time of profound loss. He shared, “Marica was a remarkable woman, a devoted Bible worker and pastor, and a loving mother. Her sudden passing from stroke complications has left us all in shock and sorrow. Marica’s dedication to her faith and congregations in Cyprus was evident in every aspect of her life. She was not only a pillar of strength and wisdom but also a beacon of hope and compassion for numerous One Year in Mission & Service students and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kind spirit and unwavering faith touched the lives of many, and her lasting legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Dean Papaioannou, Secretary-Treasurer of the Cyprus Region and who has worked closely with the Mirilov family for many years shared the following:
“Mother hen – that is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Marica, someone who always put others first, and who demonstrated daily a protective, maternal attitude towards everyone that she came in contact with irrespective of their age and background.
Taking a genuine interest in other people’s lives, she made certain that she was there for them not only in their times of joy, but more significantly in their times of need. She never tired of helping others and saw each one of them for what they were – a child of God. She always saw the good in others. I don’t recall ever hearing her complain or speak badly about someone.
She was very protective of those that she loved, and was extremely proud of every member of her family. She was a very proud grandmother, doting over her three grandchildren. I recall visiting Cyprus earlier this year while Miriam and her family were there, and Marica’s happiness at having them there was palpable.
Marica was a visionary, full of ideas and creative ways in which to try and reach the people of Cyprus. She was someone that you could never say no to, as once she set her mind to something, there was no changing it. As Secretary-Treasurer of the Cyprus Region, I would sometimes recieve calls from Marica to the effect of “Brother Dean, I would like to do such and such as part of our outreach work in Cyprus. I realise that you have not budgeted for this, however, how can we make this happen?”
Marica lived for Mission – every time she spoke to me, she told me about someone that she had met or that she had shared a book with, and who she hoped would one day find God. Her mission in life was to not only share the good news of God’s love, but also to live a life that reflected that love to those around her. She exemplified the Christian life and together with Branislav, made a formidable team as they witnessed to the community. They made everyone their friend and their home was always open to one and all.
Marica’s life was one of service to others. I know many, including myself, who have been touched by her selfless life and love. Her unexpected passing leaves a huge void not only to her own family but also to her extended church family and the many others whose lives she touched over the years. I will always remember Marica as one of the most talented, remarkable, determined, and caring women that I have ever come across in my life, whose example and influence will stay with me for life.”
[Photo: Asun Olivan]
