Mr Paiboon was pronounced dead at Thonburi Hospital, Bangkok, at 1:09 am on August 2, after years in his long fight against colorectal cancer. (See story here.)
At the family home yesterday, wreaths from politicians, organizations and churches lined the walls, including notes of condolences from Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup, the Phuket Hokkien Association and the Phuket Elderly Association.
Most wreaths were marked simply: “With Deep Sorrow.”
Among the distinguished mourners in attendance at the wake yesterday were Phuket Governor Nisit Jansomwong and Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Pachara Boonyasit.
Of note also at the wake last night was Preechavude Prab Keesin, son of now-deceased Pian Keesin, who for decades served as the Mayor of Patong. (See story here.)
Meanwhile, Mr Paiboon’s wife, Keawta Upatising, spoke few words, yet managed to say to The Phuket News behind a peaceful smile: “Paiboon was a man of the people.”
At the time of his death, Mr Paiboon was also the suspended president of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO, or OrBorJor). Mr Paiboon was among dozens of senior officials to have been suspended or transferred by order of the prime minister, pending investigations into corruption allegations. (See story here.)
It was later revealed that Mr Paiboon had been suspended from duty without pay because of matters relating to the PPAO Hospital. (See story here.)
However, PPAO Chief Administrative Officer Watcharin Patomwatthanapong confirmed to The Phuket News yesterday that the PPAO was providing some financial support and manpower to the family in arranging Mr Paiboon’s funeral.
He also noted that high-level officials from Bangkok may attend Mr Paiboon;s funeral, to be held on Monday (August 10).
“Wutthisan Tanchai, the secretary to King Prajadhipok’s Institute in Bangkok and a Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Justice have expressed their intention to attend,” Mr Watcharin said.
Friends, family and members of the public are welcome to pay their respects Mr Paiboon at his family home at 74 Wichit Songkram Rd, opposite Surakul Stadium, from 7pm to 7:45pm each day through Sunday (August 9).
Mr Paiboon will be buried at the Khao Rang graveyard in Phuket Town. The funeral will begin at 12:09pm. All are welcome to attend.