Manchayil Roy

Manchayil T. Roy (Roy)—beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many - passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness, sincerity, perseverance, joy and an unwavering dedication to his family and community.

Born on September 14, 1949 in Amaynnoor, Roy spent his formative years in Parippu, Olassa, Kottayam. Roy was the eldest of five children of the late M.C. Chacko and Sosamma Chacko. In 1972, he earned a degree in Economics from Baselios College in Kottayam. On September 25, 1977, he married his wife and lifelong partner, Molly Roy, in Kottayam.

Later that year, Roy immigrated to the United States, where he and Molly began their life together in Mount Vernon, NY. They were blessed with three daughters-Sheena, Sheeba, and Shilu. In 1985, the family moved to Rockland County, NY, where Roy spent 40 years raising his family and building a life rooted in love, faith, and service.

As the eldest in both his and Molly’s families and the first to immigrate to the States, Roy was the patriarch of his family and a constant source of support and guidance. He and Molly were always ready to lend a hand and were committed to charitable work both in India and the US. He was affectionately known as “Roychayan” by his siblings and in-laws, and “Appachen” by his many nieces and nephews. Roy was also a devoted and founding member of St. Mary’s Indian Orthodox Church of Rockland, serving as Secretary of the church for one year and in other capacities throughout the years.

Professionally, Roy dedicated seven years to Stewart Stamping before beginning a 24-year career with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), where he worked until his retirement in 2012. In retirement, he enjoyed traveling, staying informed on world affairs, and most of all, spending time with his loved ones. He spent many years helping to raise his grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of his life. Roy will be remembered for his warm smile, infectious laughter, practical advice and his gift for finding joy and humor throughout life’s many peaks and valleys. Even in his final days, he remained a pillar of strength, perseverance and grace-qualities admired by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Molly; his children Sheena (Jinoy), Sheeba (Bobby), and Shilu (Aki); and six cherished grandchildren—Anya, Norah, Sanaa, Amara, Eliza, and Kaiyan. He is also remembered with love by his sisters Vimala, Ratnamma (Susan) and Sheela, and is reunited in peace with his late sister, Lalitha. His memory will live on in the hearts of countless family members and friends.

Roy was loved beyond measure and will be missed beyond words. Please continue to keep him in your prayers.

A viewing for Manchayil will be held Friday, May 16, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at St. Mary's Indian Orthodox Church, 66 E Maple Ave, Suffern, NY 10901. A funeral service will occur Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 66 E Maple Ave, Suffern, NY 10901. A burial will occur Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 11:40 AM to 12:00 PM at Rockland Cemetery, 201 Kings Hwy, Sparkill, NY 10976.