In memory of
Sabita Devi Peters
January 5, 1936 -
June 15, 2023
Sabita, beloved wife of Hugh Peters, departed from this world on June 15th, 2023 in Mississauga, Canada. She was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, leaving behind a profound impact on all those who knew her.
Sabita was the nurturing mother of Jasmine, Kay, and Jason, and the cherished grandmother of Adrienne, Natasha, Matthew, Jaylen, Jordon, James, and Tristen. She held a special place in her heart for her great-grandchildren, Charlie, Imogen, Sienna, Ezra and Otto who brought her immense joy and happiness.
Known for her love for nature and dedication to serving others, Sabita touched the lives of many. Her selflessness and kindness were felt by all who had the privilege of crossing paths with her. She will forever be remembered for her unwavering love and the lasting memories she created.
Preceded in her death are her father Mahabir, mother Rose, sisters: Rose, Tulin, Sita and Melvie, and her brothers Bata and Joe.
Sabita was part of the Windrush Generation, those who came from the Caribbean to work in England. She studied nursing in England and earned many certifications in obstetrics, and mental health. She became a Registered Nurse and Supervisor, and was the Team Leader at Kingston General Hospital, Wimbledon, Sutton & St Helier District in England.
In 1976, Sabita moved to Canada to pursue a better life. She had to redo all her certifications and once she managed that hurdle, she worked diligently at her craft. She worked at West Park Hospital for the longest part of her career, specifically specializing in communicable diseases. She was one of the caring nurses who helped with the new diseases on the horizon - AIDS and HIV. She showed compassion and grace to those that suffered. She also treated those with TB, many of whom were immigrants themselves. She worked with the community agencies and partners to make sure the families, and surrounding communities were safe, and that the disease would not devastate others. Sabita cared about the welfare of those around her, those that had less than her, and those who struggled for basic decency in a foreign land.
Sabita was familiar with hardships. She was very close to her father Mahabir (school headmaster). He passed away suddenly when she was 10 years old. She spoke of her devastation when he died. She remembered the sun setting over the mountains in the evening and a sadness would envelope her. She said every evening since, she has felt sad. Sabita and her siblings did the best they could to support and care for their mother Poolbasie (Rose).
After his passing Sabita and her siblings worked extremely hard managing the land, the animals and taking milk to the market. Her sisters Sita, Tulin and Rose all helped with the heavy work needed to be done. Her brother Bata, worked at the jobs that his younger sisters could not do. Life was hard for them all on that small holding farm. They sold the milk and eggs from the livestock and also grew and roasted their own coffee and cocoa. Sabita's job was to carry the milk and wash out the milk jugs, and to take care of her younger cousin Aishar.
In 1976 Rose (known as Ma) died, adding to another loss for Sabita. She managed to keep going. There was no other choice for women at that time, other than to keep moving forward, and hold things together.
Sabita retired from Westpark Hospital, she enjoyed her garden and plants. She enjoyed her home which she cared for lovingly. She enjoyed her family and friends. She loved going to church at Sheridan United and meeting up with her friend Ada. Her church was a source of support, friendship and kindness for her. She had many wonderful friends at Sheridan United Church.
May her gentle soul find eternal peace and may her spirit continue to shine brightly in our lives.
Mum, your children miss you dearly. There were not enough days for us - Jasmine, Kay and Jason
San, I miss you - Gasbell Hugh.