Sylvia (Sybie) Itel (née Isaacs)

It is with profound sadness, but immense gratitude for a life beautifully lived, that we announce the peaceful passing of Sylvia (Sybie) Itel on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Just two months shy of celebrating her 102nd birthday. Sybie leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Born on October 6, 1924 to Lily Bloom and Carl Isaacs, Sybie witnessed and persevered through some of history’s most defining moments, including the Great Depression and the Second World War. Through every challenge, she carried herself with grace, optimism, and remarkable resilience. She was a proud Jewish woman whose faith, traditions, and values guided her throughout her extraordinary life.

Sybie shared a beautiful and enduring marriage with the love of her life, Julius Itel, until his passing in 1994. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and family, creating memories that would last for generations.

Nothing brought Sybie greater joy than her family. She was a devoted mother to her cherished daughter, Mona (Phil Lieberman) and her beloved son, Howard. She was an adored and deeply loved Bubbie to her granddaughters, Stacey (Sebastien Paradis) and Caryn (Brian Lafleche), and a proud and doting great-grandmother to Jada and Ashton, and M-A, who brought endless happiness to her later years. She also had a special place in her heart for her furry grandchildren, who always made her smile.

Sybie was the eldest of four siblings and shared an unbreakable bond with her sisters, Reta (the late Hy Carpman) and Rhoda (Peter Sternberg), and her brother, William. They were not only siblings but lifelong best friends who remained close throughout their lives.

Sybie had a gift for storytelling and embraced life with enthusiasm and elegance. Whether recounting memories from decades past or sharing family tales, she captivated everyone around her with her warmth, humour, and remarkable memory. Sybie loved fashion and always took pride in looking her best. Music was another of her great passions, and she found immense joy singing in a women’s choir, where her beautiful spirit shone as brightly as her voice.

Sybie’s greatest gift was the love she gave so freely. Her warmth, wisdom, resilience, and gentle spirit touched countless lives over nearly 102 remarkable years. She leaves behind a family who adored her and friends who will forever remember her kindness, laughter, and unforgettable stories.

Heartfelt gratitude to her nephew Clifford (Sheryl), her loving caregiver Jogie, Dr. Jagoe and Dr. Orr, and the doctors, nurses, and staff at CLSC Palliative René-Cassin and Nova Palliative Home Care.

Funeral service from Paperman & Sons, 3888 Jean Talon St. W., on Thursday, July 30 at 12:00 noon. Burial at the Hebrew Protective section, Kehal Israel Cemetery, D.D.O. Shiva Thursday following burial until 4:00 p.m. and from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., and Friday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Donations in Sybie’s memory may be made to Mount Sinai Auxiliary: (514) 369-2222 ext. 31337 or click here or to Nova Montreal: (514) 866-6801 or click here.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing she is reunited with her beloved Julius. Her legacy will live on in the generations she inspired and the countless memories she leaves behind.

May her memory forever be a blessing