Obituary of Elias Salim Jabalee

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and uncle, Elias Jabalee, who peacefully passed away on January 20, 2025, in Sydney, Nova Scotia, surrounded by his loving family. He was 89 years old. Born in Zahle, Lebanon, on March 10, 1935, Elias emigrated to Canada, where he built a life of hard work, resilience, and devotion to those he loved. His kindness, wisdom, and generosity touched all who knew him. Elias was a devoted father to his extended family and cherished his role as an uncle. His legacy of love and warmth will continue through the lives he impacted. Elias’s career began as the owner-operator of a tailor shop, where he skillfully made custom suits, earning a reputation for his attention to detail and craftsmanship. After closing his shop, he transitioned into the world of investments, mortgages, and property management, opening an office where he helped many people with their financial and real estate needs. Elias was a successful property owner, with several rental properties throughout Cape Breton, and his expertise in real estate and investments helped shape his legacy in the community. Elias was a founding member of the Investment Property Owners Association of Cape Breton and was deeply involved in the community throughout his life. He was a past president of the Kinsmen Club of Sydney, where his leadership and commitment to service left a lasting impact. He also served on the Board of Directors and was a Paul Harris Fellow recipient for the Rotary Club of Sydney, a testament to his dedication to community service and improving the lives of others. Elias was a proud 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, where his faith and service to others shone brightly. Additionally, he served as past president of the Cedars Club in Sydney, where he was highly respected for his contributions and leadership. He was predeceased by his sisters, Georgette Naffa, Sultana Gammoh, and Noha Osta, and his brother, Tony Jabalee, who is survived by his loving wife, Samia, and their children: Mireille (Khalil) Bou Zaid, Joselyne (Pierre) Bou Zeid, Elie (Mary) Jabalee, and George (Mishline) Jabalee. He was also predeceased by his first wife, Deanna, with whom he shared many cherished memories. Elias is survived by his second wife, Verna, who brought him great joy and companionship in their years together, (stepdaughter Jenny). He is also survived by his two sons, David (Kelly English) Jabalee of Fall River, NS, and Darren Jabalee (Ann) of East River, NS. Elias was deeply devoted to his extended family, including his nieces, nephews, and many friends. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A special thank you to his niece, Mireille, and nephew, George, for not leaving his side during his final days. Your unwavering love and support meant the world to him. The family would also like to express their deepest gratitude to Dr. Moshen Yavari, Dr. Siva Thanamayooran, and the entire staff of the Au Cala Palliative Care Unit at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion during Elias’s final days. Visitation will take place in T.J. Tracey Funeral Home, 6 Churchill Dr., Sydney, NS,902-539-7175, on Friday, January 24, 2025, 12:00 – 2:00 pm, followed by the funeral service in the Chapel at 2 pm, Fr. Bill Burke officiating. A reception will follow the service. For those unable to attend, livestreaming will be available and can be viewed by visiting the T.J. Tracey Facebook page. Words of comfort may be made to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com. May Elias rest in peace, reunited with his loved ones, in the eternal embrace of God.