Ajoni Nahas

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Ajoni Nahas, who peacefully left us at the remarkable age of 96. On July 17, 2023, the world lost a remarkable soul, but heaven gained a radiant angel whose legacy will forever light our path.

Ajoni was the true heartbeat of our family—a beacon of love, strength, and wisdom that guided us through life's joys and trials. Her life was a testament to resilience, kindness, and selflessness, and she touched the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She was not just a matriarch; she was the glue that held us together, the unwavering pillar upon which we leaned during challenging times.

Born in Lebanon on November 1, 1926, Ajoni experienced the world through almost a century, witnessing tremendous changes and advancements while keeping steadfast to her values and principles. Growing up in simpler times, she instilled in us the importance of family, loyalty, and hard work—an enduring legacy that will continue to shape our lives for generations to come.

Her love knew no bounds, as she embraced each new addition to the family with open arms and an open heart. As the family grew, so did her love—multiplied and shared equally among us all. Family gatherings were a testament to her vibrant spirit and the joy she found in bringing us all together. Her delicious cooking, sharp sense of humour, and warm hospitality created memories that we will forever hold dear.

Ajoni was an avid storyteller, jokester, and teacher; imparting her very specific instructions, especially regarding how to properly chop, clean, and dry parsley for the perfect tabouleh salad and how to utilize every square inch of your suitcase when travelling. All those who knew her, knew to have a bottle of Arak ready to share. Ajoni showed us how to live life to the fullest and how to face adversity head-on (with mischief, wit, and grace). She offered sage advice, always eager to share wisdom, offering comfort and encouragement to anyone who sought her counsel.

Her nurturing nature extended beyond the immediate family; she welcomed many into her heart. Whether it was neighbours, caregivers, doctors, nurses, friends, or family, she exemplified compassion to everyone.

We will carry Ajoni's spirit with us always, treasuring the lessons she taught us and the unconditional love she showered upon us. Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her essence lives on in each one of us, as her love has woven its way into the fabric of our souls.

As we bid farewell to our beloved Immi and Tata, we take comfort in knowing that she has been reunited with loved ones who have gone before her, especially her husband Halim and her children, Edmond, Raymonda, Nazir, Shafica, and Ibrahim. We can picture her smiling among the stars, her heart full of love and pride for the family she leaves behind. She is survived by her children, Maurice, Raymond, Therese, Nazira, and Gabriel along with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers Eli and Michel.

To honour Ajoni's memory, we will strive to live our lives as she did—with compassion, generosity, and a fierce devotion to family. We will carry her torch of love and pass it on to future generations, ensuring that her light will continue to shine brightly through us all.

Rest in eternal peace our dearest Ajoni; you were the heart of our family, and your legacy will forever endure in the tapestry of our lives.

For those wishing to offer their condolences to the family, an open house will be held at her son Gabriel’s residence, 176 SIGNATURE CLOSE S.W. on Saturday, July 22. 2023 and Sunday, July 23, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

To celebrate Ajoni’s life, relatives and friends are invited to a Visitation and Prayer Service will be held at FOSTER’S GARDEN CHAPEL, 3220 – 4 Street N.W., Calgary (across from Queen’s Park Cemetery) on Monday, July 24, 2023 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM with Prayers beginning at 7:00 PM. For those wishing to attend the Prayer Service via livestream, please use the link provided within the Service Section of Mrs. Nahas webpage starting at 6:45 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at SAINT BASIL’S MELKITE GREEK CATHOLIC CHURCH, 4903 45 St S.W., Calgary on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at 12:00 PM, with Father Samer Naaman officiating.

A Burial Service will follow at QUEEN’S PARK CEMETARY. After the Burial Service, the reception will be held at FOSTER’S GARDEN CHAPEL, 3220 – 4 Street N.W., Calgary.

If you wish, you can donate to the construction of the SAINT BASIL’S MELKITE GREEK CATHOLIC CHURCH by electronic transfer to [email protected].

To view the webcast of the Funeral Mass for Ajoni, please use the following link: https://youtu.be/TmM3-P79ttc