SLEIMAN, Souhail Sleiman
December 8, 2025
Forever remembered and cherished by his extended family, his many nieces and nephews, special friends, and all who knew and loved him.
Born in 1945 in Abra, the village he deeply loved, Souhail held an unbreakable connection to his homeland. Even after being away between 1985 and 1991, he rebuilt his home in Abra twice, driven by his devotion to the place that shaped him.
Souhail was a loving husband to Nahida, with whom he shared 41 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with tenderness, respect, and faith. He was a devoted father to Rima and Fadi, always working tirelessly to make their lives easier and to give them the support and stability every child deserves.
In 2016, his son Fadi emigrated to Toronto, and in 2020, after the Beirut explosion, Souhail and Nahida joined him. He grew to love Toronto, especially its nature, serenity, and the peaceful rhythm of life.
Faith was at the heart of who Souhail was. He loved going to church and never missed Mass on Sundays in Abra, always sitting in the same place, participating with humility and devotion. From a young age, having spent much of his childhood in a monastery, he once dreamed of becoming a priest. His spirituality stayed with him throughout his life and guided him until his final moments.
Professionally, Souhail was an exceptional French professor in both secondary school and university, teaching for over 42 years. He was admired not only for his mastery of the language but for his kindness, generosity, and the profound respect he offered his students. He was known for helping anyone who needed guidance, never refusing a question, even outside working hours. Many people owe part of their success to his encouragement and gentle wisdom.
Souhail met Nahida in 1981, and they were married on September 2, 1984. He was a joyful grandfather to Moussa and Maria, playing with them tirelessly until they were the ones to give up first. His humour was unforgettable, he could tell the same joke a hundred times, and everyone would still laugh as if hearing it for the first time.
People of all ages were drawn to him. He loved and accepted everyone exactly as they were, offering positivity, warmth, and a smile in every situation. He had a unique gift for finding the good in every moment, seeing blessings where others saw hardship.
Souhail’s faith carried him throughout his entire life. He lived with a pure heart, a gentle spirit, and a deep love for God. He now rests in Heaven, in the presence of his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, his devotion fulfilled, his journey completed, and his soul at peace.
He was an extraordinary man. He is deeply loved. And he will be forever missed.
For those unable to attend the Funeral Service in person, we invite you to view via Livestream by CLICKING HERE just prior to 11:00 am on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
- Location: DURHAM REGION, ON
- Funeral Home: DESTEFANO FUNERAL HOME
