Joseph Xavier Panketh

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Joseph (Joe) Xavier Panketh on July 2nd, 2025, at the age of 84 in his home in Pflugerville, Texas. He is survived by his beloved wife Carmen, his two sons Damien and Eric, his brothers Xavier and Sebastian, and his sister Mary.

Joseph was born in Kerala, India to Xavier and Elizabeth Panketh in 1940. His devotion to learning earned him bachelor’s degrees in physics and theology while studying in India, Italy, and England. Joe then moved to the United States and earned a master’s degree in education from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas. Joe worked with the City of Houston for 7 years and spent most of his career with the State of Texas for 22 years, retiring in 2002.

Joe was a devout Catholic and he focused on faith and family throughout his life. He devoted 41 years with the St. Vincent de Paul Society, serving the poor and those in need throughout the Austin area. He shared countless hours along with his talent and treasure with the church and community.

Joe met his wife of 51 years Carmen Gutierrez in San Antonio, and they were married in December 1973. He was a loving husband to Carmen and together raised two sons Damien and Eric. Joe made time for his family across multiple commitments and shared wisdom, knowledge, and love with his sons to develop and prepare them for successful careers in consulting and industry.

Funeral service will be held at 11 AM Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, at St. Elizabeth’s Parish in Pflugerville, TX followed by the committal service at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Cemetery in Pflugerville, TX. Joseph impacted countless lives in the Austin and Pflugerville communities and will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.