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Obituary of Rachel (Leelamma) Zachariah Jacob
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rachel (Leelamma) Zachariah Jacob on February 11, 2025, at the age of 92. A beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, she touched the lives of many with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith.
Leelamma was born in Chengannur, Kerala, India. She attended Nicolson Girls High School in Thiruvilla, Kerala, before continuing her Intermediate Studies at Mount Carmel College in Bangalore, Karnataka. She went on to complete her BSc. at Fatima Mata National College in Kollam, Kerala before pursuing a degree in Physiotherapy at Christian Medical College in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, becoming one of the first graduates in the field. At a time when women were expected to stay home and raise a family, Rachel was determined to chart her own path. She pursued higher education and built a career in physiotherapy, striving for independence and breaking barriers for women in her generation.
On May 6, 1954, Rachel married Thomas (Joy). They welcomed their first daughter, Anita, in 1957. Joy moved to Montreal, Quebec in 1963 to do his FRCS-C (Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons Canada). Leelamma and Anita joined him the following year, leaving behind everything familiar to start a new life in a new country. With courage and resilience, they embraced the challenges of adapting to a new culture and climate, laying the foundation for future generations. As early members of the Malayalee community, they helped build a strong and supportive network, forming deep and lasting friendships that would endure for decades.
With the arrival of their second daughter, Tina, in 1970, the family settled in Ormstown, Quebec. There, Rachel’s dedication and expertise led her to establish the Physiotherapy Department at the Barrie Memorial Hospital, leaving a lasting impact on the community. Though they built a wonderful life in Ormstown and found cherished friendships there, Montreal remained an important part of their lives. Nearly every weekend, they returned to the city to spend time with close friends, sharing meals, laughter, and companionship—bonds that have endured through the years.
After Joy’s passing, Leelamma remained in Ormstown, continuing her work while raising her younger daughter, Tina. It was not always easy, but with the support of her family and friends, she was able to build a life rooted in faith, resilience, and community. Their kindness and encouragement helped her navigate the challenges of single parenthood while maintaining her career and deep connections in Ormstown and Montreal.
On November 18, 1989, she married John (Thampy), embracing his daughters, Sophia and Sabena, as her own. Leelamma and Thampy shared a deep bond, built on friendship, faith, and mutual respect. Together, they supported each other through life’s challenges, including times of illness, always offering strength and comfort to one another. Their love was rooted in kindness, deep companionship, and a shared sense of adventure. They traveled the world, exploring many countries, with Rachel’s most cherished journey being her visit to Jerusalem—a trip that held deep spiritual significance for her.
Rachel was an active member of St. Paul’s United Church in Ormstown, contributing significantly to the United Church Women (UCW). Her unwavering faith and dedication to giving back to the community defined her life. Known for her strength and independence, she faced life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
Her greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren, whose presence always lit up her face. She was renowned for her delicious cooking and her generous spirit, ensuring that no one ever left her home hungry.
Rachel was predeceased by her husbands, Thomas (1978) and John (2021), as well as her sisters, Mariam and Anna, and grandchildren, Thomas and Stanley. She leaves behind her loving daughters, Anita (Julian), Tina (Thor), Sophia (Tom), and Sabena (Joe); her cherished grandchildren – Ahlya (Justin), Jacob (Amanda), Kaela (Ryan), Solveig, Zac, Giselle, and J.J.; her brother, Zachariah (Lily); her sisters-in-law, Miriam and Valsa; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.
A service to celebrate Leelamma’s life will be held at a later date. Her legacy of love, faith, and benevolence will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer Society or to the charity of your choice.
May she rest in peace.
1932 2025
Death notice for the town of: Saint John, Province: Nouveau-Brunswick
death notice Rachel Leelamma Zachariah
Jacob 1932 2025
obituaries notice Rachel Leelamma Zachariah
Jacob 1932 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Rachel Leelamma Zachariah
Jacob 1932 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
