Metarita Sears

With heavy hearts, yet trusting in God’s grace, we announce that Metarita Suplicia Theresa Sears, affectionately known as Rita, was called home to be with the Lord on April 13, 2026, at the age of 94.

A mother whose love shaped the lives of Claudette, Malcolm, Barbara, Margo, Sheila, Winston, Rita, Indira and Naleni, and their husbands and wives. A proud and devoted grandmother to Sean, Rhonda, Shauna (lovingly remembered), Riana, Zachery, Sabrina, Brandon, Isabelle, Robert, Justin and Luke, and their husbands and wives, and one who took great joy in her great-grandchildren Nathan, Willem, Sutter, Kieren and Nolan. She was one of twelve siblings, bound together in love and family and affectionately known as “Auntie Rita” to many nieces, nephews and within her extended family and circle of friends, a name that reflected the warmth and love she shared so freely.

Rita was the guiding matriarch of her family, a role she fulfilled with deep love, devotion, and a heart rooted in faith. Family was her greatest blessing, and she remained devoted to nurturing those bonds throughout her life. She was always reaching out—on the phone, in prayer, or in person—and travelled extensively throughout Canada, the United States, England, Switzerland, and Australia to be with those she loved. No conversation ever ended without her saying “I love you,” a simple yet powerful reflection of the grace, care, and compassion she carried in her heart.

Rita shared her love for others through the simple yet meaningful acts of cooking and baking, using her gifts to bring comfort and joy to those around her. Her kitchen was a place of welcome and fellowship, where family and friends gathered to share not only meals, but time, laughter, and connection. The many gatherings in her home remain among the most cherished memories for those who knew her. She had a remarkable ability to prepare meals for large groups with ease, always offering her hospitality with a generous and loving heart.

Rita was a devoted member of her church, living out her faith with quiet strength and dedication. She embraced an active and healthy life, continuing to enjoy swimming, Tai Chi, and exercise with remarkable energy and spirit well into her later years.

Though we grieve her passing, we take solace in the assurance that she has entered into eternal rest, held in the loving presence of her Lord and Saviour. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the staff at Canterbury Place for their kindness and care.

And He will raise you up on eagles' wings; Bear you on the breath of dawn; Make you to shine like the sun; And hold you in the palm of His hand.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in memory of Metarita to St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church and ShareLife

Visitation will be held at St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church (75 Churchill Ave., North York) on Friday, April 17, 2026 from 10:30 a.m. until the Funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. Burial to follow at Westminster Cemetery (5830 Bathurst St., North York).