Jennifer Lois Ishmael

April 11, 1953 – May 19, 2023

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Jennifer Lois Ishmael. She departed from this earthly realm on May 19, 2023, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Jennifer lived a life filled with faith, compassion, and devotion to her Christian beliefs, leaving behind an enduring legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her.

With a lasting imprint on the hearts of her loved ones, she is survived by Marvin Ishmael Sr, her devoted husband of 44 years, who stood by her side through life's joys and challenges. Her children, Marvin Ishmael Jr (Deseraye), and Mark Ishmael (Victoria), will forever be grateful for the love and guidance she provided. She also leaves behind her 3 grandchildren, Carter Brock, Audrey Estella, and Charlotte Anne, who were the light of her life.

Beyond her immediate family, Jennifer will be dearly missed by her siblings Perkin, Hartman, Jerome, Janet, Janice, and Barrington, her sisters in-law Deborah, Patricia, Franka, and brother in-law Peter, her cousins in-law and dear friends Selwyn and Camilla (Skip), and best friend Mary. Jennifer proudly served her church communities including Evangel Temple for 26 years, King Street Church for 16 years, and Evangel Church for her remaining time on Earth. She was a cherished aunty to several nieces and nephews, a beloved cousin to many, and adored by her countless other friends and neighbours, whom she always considered family.

Jennifer is joined in her eternal rest by her treasured “sister” Claudia, her adored siblings Patrick, Robert, and Romeo, and her dear mother Estella.

Jennifer was born April 11th, 1953 in Epworth, Jamaica, and later moved to Canada where her passion for caring for others led her to an occupation at a nursing home in Saskatchewan. Jennifer often spoke of this time in her life fondly, however her true pride and passion in her professional journey was unmistakably her 35 years working at TD bank, once she moved to Toronto, and the everlasting bonds established with the entire TD gang.

In 1978, Marvin and Jennifer were engaged and married in 1979. Together they embarked on a beautiful journey of love and devotion, their union guided by their shared Christian faith. They weathered storms together drawing strength from their unwavering commitment to each other and their shared trust in God’s providence. They revelled in joys together with a continual gratitude to God for all life’s blessings.

They welcomed their first son, Marvin Jr, in 1982, and their second son, Mark, in 1985. As parents they raised their children with an instilled importance in faith, love, and service to others.

Throughout Jennifer’s journey, she touched countless lives with her boundless compassion. She dedicated herself to serving others, consistently extending a helping hand to those in need. Her acts of selflessness and her willingness to sacrifice her own comfort for the well-being of others were a testament to her unwavering faith. She radiated warmth and love, creating an environment of acceptance and encouragement. Her home was a sanctuary of peace and joy, where her family was blessed to have her as the heart and foundation of their lives.

In addition to her profound faith, Jennifer was known for her love of cooking, providing a delicious homecooked meal to anyone she could. She had a passionate love of gardening, encouraging all those around her to discover their green thumb and marvel in the beauty created by God in the garden. She also had a deep love of music and dance and was most happy having dance parties with her grandchildren.

Although we mourn the loss of Jennifer (Jenny) Ishmael, we find solace in the knowledge that she is now in the loving embrace of her Heavenly Father. Her unwavering faith has led her to eternal rest, where she will find peace and joy in God's presence.

A celebration of Jennifer's life and legacy will be held at Oshawa Funeral home on Friday, May 26th, 2023. Visitation will be 12pm to 1:30pm, followed by Funeral service in the chapel.

The Funeral service can be viewed via Livestream using the following link:

https://fweb.tv/102076

Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society in honor of Jennifer’s lifelong dedication to helping others.