Ina Viola Clarke

She was born in Kingston, Spanish Town, Jamaica on December 8, 1929. Daughter of the Late Enid Clarke and George Clarke, Ina was predeceased by siblings Mable McGann, Kennedy Clarke and Major Clarke. She is survived by two sons, Herbert A. I. Gayle and Victor S. Gayle; grandchildren, James Gayle, Daniel Gayle and the late Victoria Gayle; daughter-in-laws Carol Gayle and Permell Ashby.

The heart and soul of her family, Ina was an amazing human being, incredible mom, loving daughter and grandmother and a loyal friend. She was a registered nurse in England, Jamaica and Toronto, Canada.

Ina was known for her tender heart, gracious charm and strength. As a mother, sister, daughter, aunt, and friend she was loving, true

and trustworthy. She was best known by her church community as: “Sister-Ina” or "Sister-Clarke.” A true christian, always ready and willing to listen and help whenever needed. She was a person who was open minded to opinions and never showed bias towards anyone.

Her absence leaves an aching void in our hearts, but her spirit lives on in the cherished memories we hold dear.

A woman of unyielding kindness, Her generous and infectious spirit touched the lives of everyone she met. Above all, she loved her family. She crafted a life with those she loved through shared dreams, mutual respect, and an unwavering support that stood as a testament to her character. She found joy and solace in the companionship of her faith and helping those in need. She connected profoundly with all living beings, illuminating the lives of others with her charismatic smile and contagious laugh. Her passion for travelling globally on cruises and meeting people was not just a hobby, but a true love and a testament to her

appreciation for the journey, for freedom, and the thrill of life.

She leaves behind her heartbroken sons; Herb/Jimmy, Victor, grieving sister; Gladys McKenzie, many nieces and nephews, a church and work community of friends and coworkers who were honored to know her in life. Each moment shared, every memory crafted, stands as a beacon of her enduring presence among us.

Her magnetic personality and deep dimpled smile drew everyone to her. Her positive attitude and comforting presence will be missed by all that knew her. Her love for her family was immeasurable.

Her life was marked by patriotism and unwavering dedication to her family. She embraced her role as a mother with boundless love and care, always putting her children’s well-being above all else. Her spirit and guidance helped shape their lives, and her legacy will forever remain in their hearts.

A devoted and engaged Mother and Grandmother, her favorite place was somewhere hot, such as: Jamaica.

Travelling with her grandchildren, inviting people to church, or listening to uplifting music. She will always be their number one fan and supporter.

Her kindness, generosity, and youthful spirit endeared her to all who knew her. Her vibrant personality and love of fashionable hats were evident in her impeccable style and radiant presence. Nothing meant more to her than being surrounded by family and friends as often as possible. Shopping often with her children was one of her favorite pastimes. Her zest for life was contagious. When walking into a room she occupied you could not help but smile the moment you saw her. She always embraced each moment with a

spirit of fun and joy.

She was a voracious reader and loved learning. Her inquisitiveness and keen intellect drove all her pursuits. Her passion was history, gardening, current events and travel. She was driven; she wanted to understand the intricacies of everything. She was a principled woman of integrity always in search for the truth and trust in God.

She’s known by her family as mom, grandma and auntie Ina, was a sweet woman and a kind soul. She stood at 5 feet, 4 inches in stature, but enormous in spirit. She had a mighty and easily recognizable voice. A woman with a giant heart and a playful sense of humour. She was tremendously caring and embraced all of her loved ones with no judgement and no expectations. She accepted everyone at face value and never cast ill will towards anyone.

She always imparted an encouraging and welcoming smile to everyone she met or shared her presence with. She worked hard to build up herself and others around her. Her caring and supportive nature allowed people around her to know they could lean on her. Her courage, determination and charm defined her.

An avid shopper, buying gifts for everyone, paying for others and often going without due to her tremendous kindness to her family and friends. She has always been and will continue to be a pillar of strength for her family. Her unwavering determination and resilience throughout her journey has made her a hero to

all those who knew her. Her humour, humble ways, gentle smile and

kindness will live on forever through all of us. A master at remembering birthdays, anniversaries and sending gifts, mugs or uplifting scripture verses. Her philosophy was to give without any specific reasons. Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter celebrations, plus any other opportunities to keep the family together. For many years, her home was the preferred venue for fun.

Her family will miss their biggest cheerleader at graduations, awards and music recitals. But her legacy of service, love, and compassion will live on forever. She loved unconditionally and was the fierce protector of those she loved. She loved big family dinners, spending time with her grandchildren and travelling with kind and considerate people. She always had a smile on her face. Her love for trying new recipes never went unnoticed. She was a generous soul, and She cherished spending time with her family telling good stories. There’s so much more about her that not even words can describe. Her infectious smile, dedication and generosity will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She will be greatly missed by her extended family and friends. As we mourn the loss of Ina Viola Clarke, we find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind. Her love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to family will forever serve as a guiding light in all that knew her.

We were very grateful to be able to visit Ina and spend her remaining 26 months together at Providence Healthcare, reading the bible, sharing comforting music, talking about the good times, and how she wants to be remembered with fun stories, pictures and lots of laughter. I would like to thank the staff at Providence Healthcare for providing care for Ina Clarke during her stay at Spruce House, Houses of Providence. A very special thank you, to Lovine H. for her genuine love and the extra special care she gave to Ina.

The family appreciates all of your prayers and kind gestures during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ina Clarke’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice.

Visitation will take place at Jerrett Funeral Homes, 660 Kennedy Road, Toronto, ON, M1K2B5, CA, on May 15, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, followed by a Funeral Service at Jerrett Funeral Homes from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

Burial will be held at Pine Hills Cemetery and Funeral Centre, 625 Birchmount Rd, Toronto, ON, M1K 1R1, CA, on May 15, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm.