George P. Mathews
August 22, 1940 —December 24, 2017

George P. Mathews, 77, died at 5:45 am, Sunday, December 24, 2017 at Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care in Hollywood, Florida. He was born in Kottayam, India and was the youngest of six children. George was married to his wife, Aleyamma, for 47 years. Also surviving are his daughter, Smitha King, his son, Samuel Mathews, and his sister Saramma Punnoose, brother-in-law, KK Punnoose and brother, PC Mathews as well as nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family located internationally.

In the early 1970’s, George immigrated to America with his young daughter, joining his wife who was already stateside working as a nurse. They had their son in New York, and by the early 1980’s, wanting to escape the frigid winters, he and his wife moved the family to South Florida. There they purchased their permanent home in Pembroke Pines.

George was a humble, kind and social person who enjoyed his routines, especially his early morning walks around his neighborhood as well as the pond at the local library; he met and developed numerous lasting friendships among many other early risers and daily walkers there. Having a degree in English Literature, he was an avid reader and movie buff, especially for the dramatic films made in India. George was devout in his Christian faith and a long time member of the Mar Thoma Church of South Florida. After retirement, he and his wife had an opportunity to travel abroad with their church group to various countries in Europe as well as to Greece, Israel, Turkey, Australia and Alaska. He was a lover of all animals, especially his beloved 20 year old cat, Lucky. His passion for animal care and rights was demonstrated by his unfailing donations to local and national charities that supported these efforts. In addition, he strongly supported the Paralyzed Veteran’s Organization, understanding that these men and women gave so much to the country he long adopted as his home.

The visitation will be held on Saturday, December 30th from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM, followed by a brief service at the Mar Thoma Church of South Florida, located at 4740 SW 82nd Avenue, Davie, FL 33328. George’s wishes were to be cremated.

Memorial contributions may be made to ASPCA or the local animal shelter in his name.

Arrangements entrusted to Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care.