Our beloved mother, Yuk Pui Lem (Tong) 林湯玉佩 passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, November 14, at the age of 96. She is survived by sons, Edward (wife LeeAnn), William, and daughter Cindy (Husband Walter) and grandchildren Kenrick, Chantal, Edmund, Kevin, Raymond and Matthew. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Ching Lem, in 1997.
She was born in China, Guangdong province, Taishan city, Shui Bu village 廣東, 台山, 水步, on November 13, 1927 to a Christian family. Her father, Ding Xian Tong 湯定顯 was a western medical doctor. Growing up with 4 older brothers and 3 older sisters who were all in the medical fields ranging from family physicians, dentist, and midwife, she followed their paths and studied in Guangdong Medical School. She worked as a nurse in the hospital's maternity ward until moving to Hong Kong prior to China becoming a Communist country. She settled in Hong Kong and worked in a doctor's office since her nursing license was not recognized. Married in 1956 to Mr. Ching Lem, our father. After the birth of first child (Edward) she became a full time housewife.
Mom was a devoted Christian, everyday she would read the Bible, pray and sing hymns. She instilled in us the value of prayers and to trust the Lord's guidance. She attended church regularly and enjoyed the fellowships and helping out in church. She was always very kind and helpful to others. Last year, at the age of 95, at the doctor's office she saw an older man come in with a cane and she wanted to offer her seat to that person who maybe 20 years younger than her! During the pandemic, at the age of 94, she was determined to learn to use the computer so she could join the Sunday service online. She 'did it' after a week of learning and practicing. She was a very crafty person, can knit, crochet, sew but cooking is her favourite hobby. She would collect recipes and watch cooking shows (even though it is in foreign languages such as Italian) and try them out.
We will miss her very much but we know that she is in a better place. She is resting peacefully in our heavenly Father's arms.

The funeral will be held at York Cemetery, 160 Beecroft, Toronto, ON M2N 5Z5. All friends and family are welcome. The family asks that donations to Richmond Hill Chinese Community Church (rhccc.ca) be made instead of flowers. After the burial service, all are invited to the Legend Chinese Restaurant 麗晶海鲜酒家, 5 Glen Cameron Road, Thornhill, ON L3T 5W2.