Phuket’s Luangpor Daeng passes away, age 79

PHUKET: More than 1,000 people, including the Phuket Governor, attended a memorial service for Luangpor Daeng, the revered abbot of Mai Khao Temple since 1978.

Originally from Nakhon Sri Thammarat, Luangpor Daeng was ordained at Wat Khunapanangtun Temple in Phattalung in 1967.

He was appointed abbot at Mai Khao Temple in 1978, serving as a teaching abbot there until his passing.

He suffered from an age-related cardiac condition and finally passed away in the ICU at Srinakarind Hospital in Haad Yai on Thursday night, at the age of 79.

Bathing rites were held yesterday. Those in attendance included Phuket Governor Tri Augkaradacha and Phuket MP Anchalee Vanich-Thepabutr.

Luangpor Daeng’s body will lie in state at the temple for devotees to pay last respects until February 18, when a cremation ceremony will begin at 6pm.