Saramma Sleeba's Obituary
I have fought the good fight,
I have finished the race,
I have kept the faith.”
2 Timothy 4:7
Saramma was born on April 1, 1942, in Thumpamon, Kerala, India, to T.P. John and Mariamma John. She was one of six siblings—blessed with two sisters and three brothers—and raised in a strong Christian home, where faith and service were the cornerstones of life.
On May 28, 1970, she married Mr. Chacko V. Sleeba in Chengannur, India. In 1974, they moved to the United States, eventually settling in Skokie, Illinois, where they raised their three sons: Chacko, John, and Oommen. Saramma was a devoted wife and mother who built a loving home filled with prayer and unwavering love.
Professionally, Saramma worked as a registered nurse at various hospitals in Evanston and Chicago for over 30 years before retiring from Cook County Hospital in 2002. She faithfully served her patients with compassion, skill, and humility. Nursing was more than a job to her—it was a ministry of healing that reflected her deep compassion for people and her commitment to service.
Saramma was a faithful member of the Chicago Mar Thoma Church, where she was active in many fellowships such as Sevika Sanghom and Fasting Prayer and she participated in many other church activities. After moving to Missouri City, Texas, in 2007, she and her husband joined Trinity Mar Thoma Church, where she was a part of the Senior Citizen’s Fellowship, and remained engaged in worship, fellowship, and service.
But it was in her home that Saramma's heart was truly displayed. A gifted cook and gracious hostess, she welcomed countless guests through her doors over the years. Her table was always full—not just with delicious meals, but with warmth, conversation, and a spirit of belonging. She especially enjoyed feeding her sons’ friends, who quickly became extended family. Her home was a refuge to many—a place where all were welcomed without hesitation, and no one ever left hungry. Her hospitality was steadfast; whether sick or well, she found great joy in being around people.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Sleebakutty; her eldest son, Chacko; her second son, John, his wife Saru, and their children, Luke (10) and Eden (6); and her youngest son, Oommen, his wife Preya, and their children, Leah (13) and Nathan (11).
Saramma’s legacy is one of faith, hospitality, service, and love. She touched countless lives with her quiet strength, generous spirit, and deep devotion to her family and community. Her absence leaves a profound void, but her memory will live on in all who were blessed to know her.
May her soul rest in peace, and may her life continue to inspire those who walk in faith.
“Blessed are those who die in the Lord… they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” – Revelation 14:1
What’s your fondest memory of Saramma?
What’s a lesson you learned from Saramma?
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Describe a day with Saramma you’ll never forget.
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