Jyoti Rajesh Desai

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our loving Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother Jyoti Desai (nee Sanghavi) in her 88th year.  Jyoti was born in Kanpur, India as the fifth of eleven children. Jyoti studied as a Doctor in India and it was at her medical clinic that she met Rajesh Desai, her beloved husband of 42 years, who predeceased her in 2005. In 1963, soon after losing their firstborn son at birth, she and her husband made the decision to move to London, UK while pregnant with twin daughters. In 1973 they chose to move to Toronto, Canada and raised their 3 children while pursuing several new business ventures. Jyoti later enjoyed a very successful career in real estate, excelling in building a loyal client base. She was a strong willed woman who was always willing to take risks for the benefit of her family. A woman of deep tradition, she showed extraordinary acceptance and love in raising her family in the culture of her newly adopted country, proving that love knows no cultural bounds. Jyoti was an extraordinary cook whose kitchen was the heart of her home. She loved nothing more than hosting family and friends, treating every guest to a feast prepared with her signature warmth and culinary skill.

She will be greatly missed by her surviving children, Meeta (Chuck), Neeta (Dave), Saurin, and her beloved grandchildren Brandon (Lane), Danielle (Neil), Maria, David, Rachel, Rebecca (Matt) and her precious great-grandsons Luca and Jesse. She also leaves behind many siblings, nieces, and nephews. Visitation will be on Sunday January 25, 2026 from 11:00 am -1:00 pm at Chapel Ridge, 8911 Woodbine Ave, Markham L3R 5G1. A private family cremation will follow.

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