In Celebration of
Rehana Massey
September 23, 1941 -
May 24, 2020
On Sunday May 24th, Rehana Massey, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother passed away at the age of 78.
Rehana was born September 23rd 1941 in Khanaqin, Iraq to the late Khurshid and Shakuntla Hakim. She grew up in Pakistan, attended Kinniard College in Lahore, where she received her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees. Rehana married the love of her life, Hubert Massey, on October 26th, 1964. After the birth of their daughter, Jamila, the three immigrated to Canada in May 1967. Once settled, they welcomed the birth of a son, Joseph in 1970.
She worked for 30 years as an elementary school teacher for the Toronto Board of Education, where she was loved by all her students. She was known for her patience and ability to inspire students.
Rehana was remembered for her incredible stories, which often expertly merged fact and fiction to entertain whoever was listening. She had a great sense of style and had a unique collection of saris. Rehana was a passionate knitter and loved to make baby blankets which she gifted to family and friends. Rehana had a beautiful smile and loving nature. She drew people to her: strangers became friends, and friends became family. Rehana's life revolved around her family!
Rehana had an extensive group of friends who were an important part of her life. Many friendships were made in childhood and even more in the 53 years living in Toronto. Rehana enjoyed entertaining her friends and being entertained by them. She noticed and appreciated the little and big things others did.
Rehana is preceded in death by her father, Khurshid, her mother Shakuntla and brother Shamshad. She is survived by her husband of 55 years Hubert, daughter Jamila Jawahir, and son Joseph (Marisa) Massey, as well as 4 grandchildren (Martika, Zachary, Matthew, and Nyah), one great-grandchild (Indigo), sister Shama Zaman and several nephews and nieces. A private service will be held on Friday May 29th 2020 for the immediate family. A Memorial Service will be scheduled for a later date.
