Renowned monk "Luang Pho Thongsuk," former abbot of Wat Nong Pladuk in Ratchaburi, passed away peacefully in his residence at the age of 93 years, 11 months, and 4 days, after 69 years in monkhood. Devotees gathered densely at the temple to mourn.
On 8 Jan 2026 GMT+7, at Wat Nong Pladuk, Ban Pong District, Ratchaburi Province, Phra Kru Woraprontthada Sukito, known as "Luang Pho Thongsuk," a renowned monk and former abbot of Wat Nong Pladuk, passed away peacefully in his residence on the afternoon of 7 January. He was 93 years, 11 months, and 4 days old, with 69 years ordained, causing deep mourning among disciples and Buddhists. After news of his passing spread, many people traveled to the temple to pay respects and participate in the ceremony transferring Luang Pho Thongsuk’s body to the temple’s sermon hall for the water-pouring funeral rite amid a sorrowful atmosphere.
Later at 16:00 today, officials from Ratchaburi’s cultural office brought holy water for the bathing ceremony at the venue. Phra Thammapanphon, abbot of Wat Mahathat Worawihan in Ratchaburi and advisor to the 15th ecclesiastical district, presided as the senior monk, while Mr. Akkharadet Wongpitakrot, former Ratchaburi MP, chaired the laypersons. Many senior officials, merchants, and locals joined in pouring water over Luang Pho Thongsuk’s body in large numbers.
Regarding his background, Phra Kru Woraprontthada Sukito (Luang Pho Thongsuk) was born on 3 February 1932 and ordained in 1957 at Wat Khok Mo, Ban Pong District, Ratchaburi. He later resided at Wat Nong Pladuk, Nong Kob Subdistrict, Ban Pong, dedicating himself to developing the temple and supporting Buddhism continuously. In 1969, he was appointed a mid-level monk rank and served as abbot of Wat Nong Pladuk. Throughout his monastic life, Luang Pho Thongsuk lived simply, practiced rightly, and was deeply respected by residents of Nong Pladuk and nearby areas. The temple produced sacred items, especially Luang Pho Thongsuk’s Takrut charms, famed for protection and safety, widely revered and spoken of.