Kolkata: Dr Alfred C Woodward, an eminent doctor and social worker, died on Thursday after a heart attack.

One of the best cardio thoracic and vascular surgeons in Kolkata, Woodward had been the personal physician of Mother Teresa. He was 59 and is survived by his wife, son and daughter.

His funeral Mass will be held at Mother House on May 9 and the burial at St John’s Cemetery, Sealdah, The Times of India reported.

Archbishop Thomas D Souza of Calcutta, condoling Woodward’s death said, “I have known him for the past four years and he was such a warm and friendly person. Closely associated with the Missionaries of Charity, he was always there in the service of the people, specially for the poor. He was one of the doctors treating Mother Teresa and was by her side when she breathed her last in 1997. He was even treating Sister Nirmala who was not keeping well. His death is a great loss to the society and our community.”