Joseph Peter Tong

Joseph Peter Tong, passed away on Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at the age of 71. After several months of declining health with congestive heart failure, Joseph died peacefully with his beloved wife, Mary and family by his side.

Joseph was born on July 7, 1950 to father Thompson Tong and mother Rajamma. He was an entrepreneur and trained in the business of graphic arts and design at the age of 18. His ambition and compassion for people led him to train the blind and disabled into a career which allowed them to be self-sufficient in India.

Joseph met his sweetheart, Mary, at the age of 15 while attending Saint Patricks Catholic school. They were married May 13, 1975 at Saint John's Catholic Church in Fraser Town, Bangalore.

In June 1981, at Gospel Prayer Hall in India, Joseph and Mary accepted Yeshua as their personal Savior. Together they faithfully dedicated their lives to the Lord and became ordained ministers with the Assemblies of God. Their exciting journey with the Lord led them to move from India to Richmond, Virginia in 1987 with their two children, Henry and Valoreena. Joseph invested heavily in serving the community in New York City, especially the homeless and nursing home population. He was an enthusiastic evangelist and preacher.

He was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Joseph always celebrated life with a smile on his face. He took every opportunity to bless others and share the gospel to those around him. He was a charismatic and spontaneous risk taker throughout his life endeavors. May his deep affection for people and animals continue to make an impact in the hearts of many through his living family members.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents and by his beloved sister Mary Matthews and Nephew, John Mathews. He is survived by his wife Mary Vasanthi, his children Henry and wife Mindy, Valoreena and husband Shawn, daughter Rebecca and grandchildren Annabelle and David Moir.