Johny Olickal Mathai, the eldest of eight children, was born to Olickal Kuriako Mathai and Mariamma Mathai on January 20, 1946, at Olickal House Arakkunnam.

After completing high school at St. George's High School Arakkunnam he pursued a career at Fisheries company in Chennai for ten years. Afterwards, he enjoyed managing his grocery store in his hometown, Oozhakode, Arakkunnam.

He married the love of his life Aleyamma from Kadathaparambil family on May 8,1977. He also enjoyed serving as headmaster at Oozhakode Mor Gregorios Sunday school for many years. His family expanded with the birth of his son and daughter Lijo and Lini.

Johny was a very loving personality, a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, godfather, and a very good friend. He immigrated to USA in 2009 with his wife and lived in Oklahoma, and then moved to Houston in 2013.

Johny was a dedicated member of St. George's Jacobite Syrian Church Arakkunnam, which is his home parish, and , Houston. He will be remembered for his love, compassion, kindness, generosity, and affection that he shared with family and friends. He will live in our hearts and memories forever, bringing comfort in the days to come.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith"

Timothy II 4:7