Paduthottu V. Philip

Paduthottu V. Philip (“Philip”) passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, at the age of 89, surrounded by his loving family.

Philip (affectionately called “Kunjoonjukutty”) was born in Kerala in 1935, and was the son of the late P.M. Varughese (“Varichen”) and the late Mariamma Varughese (“Kuttipennu”). His father was a successful businessman in Changanassery and his mother was a homemaker. His mother was a strong woman of faith whose Christian values were instilled in him from early childhood. Philip was the youngest of four. He deeply respected and looked up to his brother, the late Rev. P.V. George. His late sisters, Mary and Chinnai, helped raise him after his mother passed away when he was 15. He would take every opportunity to talk to others about his love and appreciation for his parents and siblings.

Philip completed his pre-degree at Union Christian College in Alwaye, followed by his Bachelor of Arts degree at Mar Thoma College in Thiruvalla. Upon graduation, he started his career as an auditor for the Office of Accountant General in Rajkot, Gujarat. Shortly after, he was introduced to his beloved wife, the late Gracy Philip (“Gracykutty”). Their marriage of 58 years was a wonderful partnership built on their shared devotion to their Christian faith, mutual respect, and support of each other.

In pursuit of academic growth and new opportunities for his family, Philip made the brave decision to move his family to the United States. Eventually settling in Broomall, Pennsylvania, he and Gracy created a warm and welcoming home for the next 44 years. He worked at Moss Rehabilitation Hospital as a Payroll Manager until his retirement in 2000. He was well-respected by his colleagues and excelled in his role.

Beyond his career, Philip played a vital role in the growth of the Mar Thoma Church in the Philadelphia area. He was directly involved in the development of the city’s first Mar Thoma Church, in which he served in various leadership positions including Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Auditor, Committee Member, and Sunday School teacher.

Philip’s life centered around his relationships with family. Although his siblings remained in India, he maintained strong bonds with them as he made every effort to stay in touch. Philip was also proud to have assisted in bringing Gracy’s siblings from India. He grew very close to Gracy’s family in the following years and found joy in helping them in any way that he could.

Philip was a proud father of three children – Sheela, Sheeja, and Shibu. He provided a stable and Christ-centered home for them. He spent countless hours helping them with schoolwork, supporting them in their activities, and advising them as they grew up. He cherished their evening routine of eating dinner and praying together as a family. When Sheela married the late Dr. John Suku Zachariah, he welcomed Suku with open arms and loved him as his own son.

Philip had a big soft spot for his grandchildren, Kirin and Navin. As their Appachen, he was their biggest champion. Whether it was encouraging them to excel in the classroom or providing them guidance on their career paths, he never missed a chance to cheer them on while teaching them invaluable lessons on work ethic and faith along the way. He especially loved watching (and complaining about) his favorite team, the 76ers, with them.

A lifelong learner, Philip loved to read about current events, politics, and investing. He always had the sports section of Philadelphia Inquirer on his coffee table, ready for when he had free time.

Above all, Philip cherished moments at the head of his kitchen table, conversing with his loved ones and enjoying delicious meals prepared by Gracy. He was grateful for the time he had with Gracy to build a beautiful life together before her passing. Even into the last years of his life, he continued to find immense joy in the company of friends and family, reminiscing over old memories, singing his favorite hymns, and lifting others in prayer. He will be dearly missed, but his humble spirit, unwavering faith, witty remarks, and fervent love for and dedication to his family will be remembered forever.

Philip is survived by his children, Sheela Zachariah, Sheeja Philip, and Shibu Philip, and his grandchildren, Kirin and Navin Zachariah. Also left to cherish his memory are his nephews, Rev. Dr. P.G. George and John Paduthottu and family, and his sisters’ children and families.