Her family takes comfort in the assurance that she is now resting in eternal peace. Born on March 11, 1940, in Trelawny, Jamaica, Reta was the cherished daughter of Amos and Maud Henry. Her life was a true reflection of love, dedication, and service to others. She leaves behind her devoted husband of 52 years, Percival Leslie, and her beloved children: Juliette "Gaye" (Tony), Fitzroy (Sceon), Nigel (Carol), Marc (Melanie), and Peter (Melissa). She was a treasured grandmother to Tania, Monique, Shaunteé (Mark), Rebecca, D’André, Kasia, Lysandra, Nyomi, Ajani, Hannah, Saniyah, Chloe and a proud great-grandmother to Malachi, Zoe, Carmello, and Darius.
Reta was a loving sister to Laris, Lena, Ralph, and Olive, and was predeceased by her brothers Delbert “Sonny,” Taylor, and Lynden. She will be remembered fondly by her nephews Herbert, Robert, and Marlon, and by extended family—Pam and Simba Nyawiri, Joel Best, Maxine and Kenrick Manning—whose unwavering love and support have been a blessing over the years.
Reta’s career as a Registered Nurse spanned decades and touched countless lives. She served at Joseph Brant Hospital, Hamilton General Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Chedoke Hospital, Bayshore Agency, Victoria Nursing Home, Grace Villa Nursing Home, and Heritage Green Nursing Home. Her journey in nursing began when she immigrated from Jamaica to England to pursue her studies. There, she worked as both a midwife and registered nurse at City Health Campus in Birmingham, U.K., before moving to Canada.
She met her first and only love, Percival, during their childhood years in Trelawny. After establishing her career in the U.K., she returned to Jamaica, and the two were married on September 27, 1972. Shortly after, they moved to Canada to build a life together and raise their family.
Reta was a committed and long-time member of the Hamilton-Mountain Seventh Day Adventist Church, where she was known for her kind heart, steadfast faith, and generous spirit. She was also known for her first-class hospitality, always offering the very best to anyone she knew. Her door was always open, and every Sabbath her home came alive with her infamous feasts, welcoming children, grandchildren, and friends from church around her table.
Beyond her warmth and hospitality, Reta was also admired for her straightforward nature. She was never one to mince words—she told it like it was, with honesty, conviction, and love. Her wisdom, strength, and authenticity made her a pillar of strength to those around her.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff at Hamilton General Hospital (5 West) and St. Peter’s Hospital Palliative Unit (3 West) for their compassionate care and support. A special acknowledgment goes to Lauren, the dedicated social worker at Hamilton General, for her professionalism, kindness, and guidance during this time.
Visitation will be held at Cresmount Funeral Home, 322 Fennell Avenue E., Hamilton, on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and 7:00 to 9:00 pm. A second visitation will take place at Hamilton-Mountain Seventh Day Adventist Church, 284 Concession Street, at 10:00 am on Thursday, April 24, 2025, followed by the Funeral Service at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at Mount Hamilton Cemetery, 260 Rymal Road E., Hamilton. Online condolences can be left at cresmountfennellchapel.com
The Leslie family is deeply thankful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from friends, family, and the community. Reta’s legacy of faith, compassion, strength, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
May she rest in heavenly peace.
