On October 9th, 2021 the Lord called his faithful servant, Benjamin "Shaji" Chrisostom, to Heaven. Ben's faith was a fundamental tenet in his life, one which was instilled in him by his surviving parents, George and Lilly Chrisostom of Nilambur, India. Ben is also survived by his loving wife, Maggie, dear children Kandise and Serena, as well as his siblings Grace, Matthew, Annie, and George Jr.
In the summer of 1986, Ben first committed his life to God. Born on June 26th, 1960, in Nilambur, Ben graduated from Oral Roberts University in 1993 with a Master's in Divinity. In 1989, Ben was blessed to meet and marry the love of his life, Maggie. The two settled in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and were married for 32 joy-filled years. Ben went to work for his alma mater as a retail manager for Sodexo, where he worked for 3 decades.
In 1997, Ben and Maggie welcomed their twin girls, Kandise and Serena, into the world. Ben's girls were his pride and joy. Nothing demonstrated Ben's selfless and faithful nature more than his dedication to his children.
Anyone who had the fortune of knowing Ben knew that the word "selfless" was not better exemplified by another person. Ben lived his life in total service to those around him. He demonstrated this selflessness in a million different ways, to so many people that the number is hard to quantify. Ben knew the right joke to tell to lift your spirit or the perfect verse of scripture to guide you during a difficult time. His warmth and humor brought instant joy to anyone in his presence.
Perhaps more than anything else, Ben will be remembered as a faithful and humble servant of God. Ben was passionate about spreading the gospel throughout the world. He was an active and devoted member of St. James United Methodist Church and served as a missionary for Indian Evangelical Team (IET).
A memorial service is scheduled for October 15, 2021, at Christ Chapel. Pastor Greg Tolle will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ben's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. James United Methodist Church in support of IET.
Moore Funeral Home - Southlawn Chapel 918-663-2233