Mary “Tiny” Shaben passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025, at the Dorothy Ley Hospice in Etobicoke, at the age of 86—just 6 days shy of her 87th birthday. She was predeceased by her sisters Joan, Eileen, Maureen, and Sabrina; her brothers Ed and Larry; brothers-in-law Awni and Sid; sister-in-law Alma; her best friends Michelle and Marie Claire; and her partner Fred. She left this world hand in hand with her beloved sister Faye, who passed fourteen hours before. She will be lovingly missed by her siblings Bob, Lori, and Albert, as well as by her many nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews — each of whom she cherished.

Known affectionately as Tiny, Mary had an abundance of children in her life for someone who never bore any of her own. Over the years, countless people thought of her as a second mother, drawn in by her love, compassion, guidance, and generosity. Her home was always open to anyone in need, and her heart was open even wider.

A remarkable cook, she hosted endless family meals in her apartment—meals that somehow never felt crowded, even with thirty people gathered around. Tiny could tell a joke, debate world events, and win a sports bet without even trying. She loved to read, especially science fiction, and she was fiercely independent. Never afraid to take risks or try new things, she lived in several cities across Canada and the United States, though Toronto was ultimately the place she called home. She carried immense pride in her nationality and Lebanese heritage, and she followed politics and human-rights issues with passion and conviction.

In her final years, Tiny found great joy in a renewed closeness with her eldest sister, Faye. They spoke every day, spent months together in Arizona and Edmonton, and treasured each other’s company and friendship. Tiny leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and unwavering support. Many more family dinners will be shared, and many football games watched, where her presence will be felt and remembered. And hopefully, someone has mastered her legendary fried chicken.

Tiny was one of the good ones. Our lives are forever better for having had her in them.

Family and friends may pay their respects on Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 12:30 -1:30 pm at Turner & Porter Funeral Home, Peel Chapel, 2180 Hurontario St., Mississauga. Chapel Service to follow.

Internment will be held at Park Lawn Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the Dorothy Ley Hospice (https://dlhospice.org)