Ida Lea Salem

Ida Lea Salem, aged 98, passed away on September 23, 2026. Born on June 24, 1928, in Edmonton, Alberta, she moved to Ontario in her teens and made her home in Toronto, Ontario.

From an early age, Ida’s life was shaped by a steady devotion and a deepening faith. At 16, she converted to Catholicism, a decision that would guide the course of her life with quiet conviction and enduring purpose. She later entered religious life as a Sister of Zion, offering herself in faithful service and ministry. In her 50s, she concluded her formal ministry and began a new chapter as a teacher, continuing to give of herself through a life of care, presence, and dedication.

Ida Lea was a devoted member of many Catholic parishes, including St. Margaret of Scotland, St. Monica, St. Eugene, St. Timothy, and Our Lady of Assumption. She served as a lector, participated in prayer groups, and was a faithful attendee at Masses—her commitment expressed not in grand gestures, but in constancy, reverence, and love. Ida was a benefactor to Bishop Abraham's Diocese in Kerala, Muvattupuzha, India. She was also a member of the Association of Christian Therapists.

The family extends deep appreciation to the Circle of Care, the Ontario Home Care, Dr. Michelle Conron, and her palliative doctor Dr. Adam Goldman for their compassionate care. Heartfelt thanks are also offered to family and friends for their visits and support.

Visitation will be held at Kane-Jerrett Funeral Homes, 6191 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, M2M 4K4 on October 9, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Funeral Mass will take place the following day, Saturday October 10, 2026 at 10 am at St. Margaret of Scotland Parish, 222 Ridley Blvd, Toronto, ON M5M 3M6. Ida will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be considered in Ida's memory to St. Margaret of Scotland Parish.