Josephine Theresa Salah

After a long and blessed life Josephine (Josie) passed away on June 25, 2016 surrounded by her loving family.

A kind and gentle woman, Josie took delight in life's simple things. She had a big smile, and an even bigger heart. Her sweet and generous nature remained until the end and she will truly be missed by all who knew her.

A survivor of the Halifax Explosion, Josie was a child of Rezallah and Theresa Arab who immigrated to Canada from Diman, Lebanon. She regaled others with many stories from her youth, particularly times spent with her mother in their farmer's market stall selling fruits and vegetables. The family was an integral part of the community and she remembered their home on Church Street as a lively gathering spot for many from near and afar.

As the oldest of seven children, Josie helped care for her younger siblings and became a significant influence in their lives. Her youngest brother Donald fondly recalled those times at her 100th birthday celebration when he said "I will always be grateful for the love and care of my big sister Josie. We were so lucky to have her". In her later years, Josie became the beloved matriarch to the many generations who followed, including the extended family in Chicago who grew to love her during the many visits with her daughter.

She met her one true love in Anthony (Tony) Salah soon after he arrived in Canada. Theirs was a beautiful union and together they worked tirelessly in mutual love and respect as they pioneered several business ventures and initiatives. True entrepreneurs, they were partners in every sense of the word, dedicated to providing a good home for their growing family. They were worthy role models. After Tony's death she continued to be a part of whatever business direction the family pursued.

Josie was a woman of deep and abiding faith. A lifelong member of Saint Mary's Cathedral Basilica, she served in both the Catholic Women's League and as a Eucharist Minister for many years. Daily prayers were always a big part of her life and brought great comfort to many during difficult times. Her devotion was profound. Josie was a dedicated and compassionate woman who loved unconditionally - family was everything to her. Her cooking was legendary and plentiful - there was always room for one more at the Salah table and all were made to feel welcome.

Josie's youthful complexion belied her years; even in her final weeks, hospital staff could not believe her age. Many would attribute this to her years as a successful Avon representative in the south end of Halifax - a beautiful testimony of the products. She received many awards throughout her tenure with the company and was blessed with many enduring friendships.

She lead by example and there was never doubt as to what was right and wrong. She found the best in every person. She was the peacemaker of the family. Loving and caring she will live on in our memories. Her wisdom, kindness and compassion will be with us forever.

Josie was predeceased by her parents; the love of her life Anthony (Tony) Salah; sisters Sara (Sally) Grafton and Mary Harkins; brothers Thomas (Tommy) and John Arab. She is survived by her children Joanne (Robert) Leck, Chicago; Ron Salah, Halifax; Ken (Judy) Salah, Toronto; Robert (Gail) Salah, Halifax; her sister Theresa Kelly, Kitchener; brother Donald (Dorothy) Arab, Halifax. Grandchildren Marie (Joshua), Joan (Mark), Therese (Craig), Miriam Salah; Donald & Layla Guse-Salah; Anthony and Adriane Salah. Great grandchildren Rosa, Lucas, Andrea, Holly, Kai and Giavana; many beloved nieces and nephews who will all miss her dearly.

The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the caregivers from Northwood Homecare Services who assisted her with kindness and compassion in her final years; to Dr. Min Lee and Dr. Robert Brown; to the nursing staff of the QEII Halifax Infirmary site 4.1, and the Palliative Care team at the V.G. for their exceptional care of our dear mother.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday June 29 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM in Cruikshank's Funeral Home, 2666 Windsor St., Halifax, NS. Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, June 30,2016 at 10:00 AM from Saint Mary's Cathedral Basilica with Rev. John Williams officiating. Burial in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Sackville. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Saint Mary's Cathedral Basilica.

Online condolences may be made at: www.cruikshankhalifaxfuneralhome.com