In the heart of Parkland, the Mathew family is a beautiful reflection of faith, resilience, and community. Jason and Smitha, along with their children Caris,15, Rhema, 12, and Luke, 10, live each day grounded in gratitude and guided by their deep trust in God.
Jason and Smitha are both pharmacists who have faithfully served their communities for more than two decades. Jason spent 21 years as a Publix Pharmacy Manager and now works for a pharmaceutical distribution company. Smitha has dedicated the past 23 years to serving as a community pharmacist with Walgreens. Their commitment to caring for others extends far beyond their professions and into every aspect of their lives.
The couple found their calling not only in healthcare, but also in ministry. They are deeply involved at Calvary Chapel Parkland, where Jason serves as an elder and leads the hospitality team, while Smitha teaches Sunday school. Their faith is the foundation of their family life. Through church outreach, hospital visits, food distribution efforts, and hosting a biweekly couples’ Bible study in their home, they are passionate about helping others discover the hope found in a personal relationship with God.
Their family story includes both profound joy and deep sorrow. Their oldest daughter, Selah, 15, went to be with the Lord on Good Friday in 2024. As Easter approaches each year, the Mathews hold tightly to the promise of Christ’s resurrection and the assurance that they will one day be reunited with their daughter. Though their hearts were shattered by loss, they have experienced what they describe as God’s comforting, peace; one that has carried them through unimaginable grief. They speak often of the miracle of how their school community, church family, and neighbors became the hands and feet of Jesus during their darkest season.
All of the children attend Calvary Christian Academy in Fort Lauderdale. Caris, a ninth grader, has a passion for engineering, volleyball, and the arts. Her gift in visual design was recognized when her 3D artwork was selected for the official poster of her school’s art show. Rhema, in grade 6, thrives in dance and theater. She dances at Parkridge Church and recently competed in the Junior Thespians State Competition in Orlando. Luke brings energy and enthusiasm to the fourth grade with his love for football and soccer. He especially enjoys math, science, and of course, recess.
As a family, the Mathews cherish hosting friends and extended family, enjoying movie nights, traveling together, playing board games, and attending church and school events. This spring break will mark a special milestone as they embark on their very first family mission trip together to the Bahamas.
Living in Parkland has been a true blessing for them. They treasure the warmth of their neighbors; especially one who began a sweet tradition of gifting the children gingerbread house kits each Christmas. What started as a simple act of kindness has grown into a beloved annual memory, one they now joyfully share with other families.
