Parampathoor Geevarghese Joseph (Ponnumon), also lovingly called “Pappaji” or “Ponnachayan” by family and friends, was born on June 20, 1935 in Chengannur, Kerala, India. Pappaji was the youngest of 11 children born to Late Evangelist Geevarghese and Late Achamma Geevarghese, so his parents named him Joseph. Upon completion of his education, he served in the Indian Army for 16 years, followed by years working in the Middle East.
On December 30, 1963, Pappaji married the love of his life, Late Omana Joseph, daughter of Late V.K. Cherian and Late Kunjamma Cherian. Together, they were blessed with two daughters, Sheela (Molamma) and Shirley (Minia), and one son, James (Kunju). Pappaji was born and raised in a Marthomite family. When he came to know the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, he accepted Him as his Lord and Savior in 1972 and obeyed the Lord in believer’s water baptism in 1983. Pappaji and his wife worshiped in truth and spirit and were devout members of Church of God Chengannur since 1983. Together, they played a significant role in bringing many to the saving knowledge of Christ. In 1995, Pappaji visited his eldest daughter’s family in the USA, and later officially immigrated along with his wife in 1996. He has resided in Grand Prairie, Texas since then.
Pappaji and his wife lived an admirable married life with scheduled times for prayer. In May of 1999, after 35 years of marriage, Pappaji’s dear wife was promoted to glory. Through these challenging seasons, Pappaji’s faith remained steady. Even after his wife’s passing, he continued a consistent prayer life at the exact times that he and his wife formerly used to pray. This was a lasting legacy he left for generations to come.
Pappaji was an active member of Assembly of God Dallas since the inception of the church. He was well-respected by all age groups, and built sincere relationships with everyone. He was always eager to participate in the Christ Ambassador’s Meetings, giving glory to God through his gifts of poetry, songwriting, and his knowledge of the Word. Pappaji had a heart of compassion and supported several mission projects in India and the U.S. financially and prayerfully.
Not only was Pappaji a poet and songwriter, but he was also a skilled artist. He loved drawing and painting sceneries, and used this as an avenue to create beautiful memories with his grandchildren. Pappaji was a seasoned gardener, and was very passionate about growing vegetables in his backyard. He found great joy in sharing his harvest with others in the community.
Pappaji was well respected in all circles of life. He lived a life of discipline, he was a lifelong learner, and he was a man after God’s own heart. He lived an exemplary Christian life and demonstrated steadfast dependence upon God in word and deed. Irrespective of language barriers or limitations, Pappaji was always eager in presenting the Gospel to everyone he encountered. His life was a blessing to his family, church, and community. His presence will be dearly missed by all.
At his residence in Grand Prairie, Texas, on February 17, 2022 at 12:07 am, P.G. Joseph was peacefully promoted to eternal glory, surrounded by his family and loved ones as they sang songs of hope and prayer. When he was healthy, Pappaji had voiced his wishes with his family members. One of his last desires was to leave this earth surrounded by his children and grandchildren in the bedroom he resided in. What a blessing to know that God honored his desires, even to the smallest details. Psalm 37:4: “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart” was the theme of his life journey.
Pappaji was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and siblings.
Pappaji is survived by his 3 children and their families—Sheela (Molamma) and Jose Maliyil, Shirley (Minia) and Philip Baby, and James (Kunju) and Bincy Joseph, and 9 grandchildren—Sarah, Sharon, Sheba, Stacy and Juby, Steven, Stanley, Justin, Jason, and Jessica.
Although we will deeply miss our dear Pappaji, we take comfort in knowing that he has completed his earthly journey and is now fulfilling his lifelong hope of resting in the presence of his Savior.