Dr Junilyn Pikacha from Choiseul Province died in Honiara after a long illness.
She was called to rest early Wednesday morning at 12.45am at her family home in Panatina.
Dr Pikacha, 57, graduated in the field of medicine in 1978 with a Bachelor in Surgery and Medicine (MBBS) from the University of Papua New Guinea.
After getting married to Dr Douglas Pikacha, who is currently a chief surgeon at the National Referral Hospital, they both worked in PNG before returning to Solomon Islands.
They later worked at Atoifi Adventist Hospital and Honiara between 1982 and 1987 before going over to Honolulu, Hawai’i, for further studies.
Dr Junilyn graduated with a masters degree in public health at the end of 1988.
After returning to the country, she headed the reproductive health department, a position she held for 20 years until her retirement last year on medical grounds.
As head of reproductive health she was responsible for all reproductive issues affecting families, especially women.
She was also involved with the Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA).
Dr Junilyn was popular with female patients because of her involvement in women’s diseases and issues after operating a private clinic for women for few years in Honiara.
And through her clinic many women came to know her.
Apart from work commitment she was also involved in the Lauru People’s Association, church activities, and community work.
Few years ago she helped found a piano music class through her youngest son Junior.
And through Junior’s tutor in Australia, Dr Junilyn was able to bring the music teacher to Honiara who also taught other local interested kids in piano lessons.
She is survived by her husband, Dr Douglas Pikacha, three children Patrick, Nola and Junior, a daughter-in-law Betty and two grand children Rosie and Tommy.
Late Junilyn came from a family of nine children.
Since her passing away, messages of condolence and sympathies have been flowing in.
Members of the medical fraternity led by Minister Charles Sigoto also visited her home yesterday to pay their respect.
A funeral service will be held 9am today at Maranatha Hall, Burns Creek, East Honiara.
She will be laid to rest at Betikama cemetery.
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