Obituary of Mrs. Maria Paris
Maria Paris (nee Kyriazopoulos) was born in Argos Greece. She was the fourth of five kids and the first one to finish high school. She was a courageous young woman who travelled by ship for two weeks to the U.S. and Canada to visit relatives at the age of 25. She met James Paris in Toronto, Canada. They got married and were together for over 60 years. They welcomed two children, Christina and Theodore. They enjoyed their home and big backyard in Scarborough for many years. Maria was an exceptional gardener and won awards for her spectacular gardens.
She taught herself English by reading the newspaper and watching educational shows like General Hospital and the Young and The Restless. She worked at home taking care of her family and learned how to drive from her father-in-law. She enjoyed her life in Canada, including all the snow, but also travelled many times back home to see her family in Greece.
She was a devoted wife and mother. Because of her excellent care, James was able to reach 100 years. She encouraged her children to study and get a good education. She also got them involved in swimming where they eventually met their spouses Mark and Sonali.
The happiest time of her life was helping take care of her 5 grandchildren: Brittani, Carter, Jamie, AnnaMaria and Maia. They thought the world of their Yiayia and always looked forward to her hugs, delicious cooking, sense of humour and sharing secrets. She was also a very proud Yiayia to her fur grandbabies Bentley, Skipper, Odysseus and Bowie. They happily benefited from the “crumbs” she would “drop" for them.
Along with her Greek soap operas and watching Greek church on Sundays at home, she enjoyed cheering on the Blue Jays, Leafs and Raptors.
Sadly, she succumbed to pneumonia. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Centenary Hospital for taking such good care of her.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Centenary Hospital.
Please join us after the interment for a light lunch at Christ the King reception hall.
