Private Farewell for Dr ‘Leighley’

A somber mood hung over Tavakubu Cemetery in Lautoka on Friday as friends, colleagues, and close acquaintances gathered to pay their final respects to Dr Isireli Biumaitotoya, fondly known as Leighley Darling.

The 56-year-old medical practitioner, found dead at his Namaka residence in Nadi on Monday in a suspected case of murder, was laid to rest in a private ceremony. 

His body was taken directly from the Lautoka Hospital Mortuary to the cemetery before a burial service was held later at his family home in Ba. 

Friends described him as elegant, brilliant, and dedicated. 

Among those mourning him, Rafaele Delai, fondly known as Delsy, shared heartfelt words: “It is hard to believe, but I have to accept the fact that Leli is really gone. No more laughter, no more meeting up together. It is hard to say goodbye. My friend, we terribly miss you and hope for justice,” he said.

Hailing from Tubou in Lakeba, Lau, with maternal links to Kadavu, Dr Biumaitotoya was the eldest of five siblings.

He attended Natabua Primary and High Schools before excelling at the University of the South Pacific and the Fiji School of Medicine, where he was a gold medallist. 

He began his career as an aviation doctor, certified by Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF), before becoming a respected general practitioner and clinic owner in Namaka, Nadi. 

Many residents relied on him as their family doctor, praising his professionalism and compassionate care.

Dr Biumaitotoya’s passing leaves a profound void in both the medical community and the hearts of those who knew him.

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