Rev. Jacob M. Mathew, 81, of Aubrey, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025, in Plano, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 29, 1944, to Annamma and Thomas Mathai in Kumbanad, India. Jacob’s life was defined by his dedication, hard work, and love for his family.
Jacob married his beloved wife, Annamma (Idicula), in Kerala, India, on March 2, 1972. Shortly after their marriage, Jacob moved to the United States in October 1972 to pursue his studies in Theology at the Chicago Baptist Institute. He later had a church ministry for several years in the Chicago area. He was the first in his family to come to the U.S., motivated by his desire to create a better future for his wife and their future children.
Jacob’s wife, Annamma, joined him in the U.S. in 1976, and together, they began building a life in Chicago. Their tireless efforts to create a home and raise their children in a new country were a profound sacrifice for which their children will always be grateful. In 2015, they moved to Texas to be closer to their daughter and for the warmer weather.
Jacob was a man of many talents, known as a jack of all trades. He was skilled in carpentry, enjoyed gardening, and had a passion for sports and health. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, loved watching tennis daily, and indulged in his favorite treat from time to time—Taco Bell.
Jacob’s family was his joy. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Annamma Mathew; his children, Stanley Mathew and his wife Bincy, of Hoffman Estates, Illinois; Burney Mathew and his wife Jaimy, of Houston, Texas; and Stephanie Varghese and her husband Philip, of Little Elm, Texas. He was a proud grandfather to Gabriella Mathew, Sophia Varghese, Lucas Mathew, Maya Varghese, Zachary Varghese, and a soon-to-be-born grandson. Jacob is also survived by his four brothers and two sisters – M. M. Varghese, M. M. Philip, Ponnamma Mammen, Aleyamma Varghese, Abraham Mettil, and John Mathew.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Annamma Mathai; his beloved son, Samuel Mathew; and his eldest brother, M. M. Thomas.
Jacob’s faith, perseverance, zest for learning, and the love he shared with those closest to him will live on in their hearts forever.
Viewing and Service Information: Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life on Saturday, February 15, 2025.
Viewing and Reflections: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM CST
Funeral Service: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM CST
Interment will immediately follow at Ridgeview West Memorial Park, 7800 Sanctuary Drive, Frisco, Texas 75033