Lionel Ebenezer Challenger
March 24, 2026
Lionel Challenger, aged 83, passed away quietly on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga, Ontario with his family by his side.
He was born on February 4, 1943, in Tabernacle, St. Kitts (WI), the oldest of eight children to Aaron and Olive Challenger. The family moved to Basseterre, St. Kitts when Lionel turned eight. At the age of 19, while working as a police officer (#184), he met Rita, the love of his life, and later moved to Canada with her. They got married in Montreal on July 29, 1967 and enjoyed 59 wonderful years together. Lionel is survived by his wife, four children, nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, three living sisters and many nieces and nephews.
After a rewarding career at Purolator, Lionel retired to focus on his spiritual growth and helping others. He was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and happily served as a spiritual mentor and prayer warrior for many people. At just 80 years old, he answered a long-held calling and became ordained as a Pastor. Whether someone was a stranger or an old friend in Christ, if the Holy Spirit inspired him to pray for them or with them, Lionel responded without hesitation. He never missed an opportunity to intercede for anyone who needed it.
Lionel had quite the sweet tooth and was well-known among his Mississauga 55+ Seniors Group for creating impressive food plates that often included chicken, cake slices, salad fruits, lasagna with a bun on the side topped off with a bowl of ice cream. Despite this love for food, he stayed lean and fit through dancing the twist joyfully while power walking or maintaining a prayer stance for hours to fulfill every prayer request he received.
Lionel will be remembered fondly as a loving Husband, Father, Papa Brother and Friend.
<p. He will be missed by his wife along with their children – Nigel; Tracey (Charles); Trevor (Son); Lori; grandchildren – Anique (Darius); Paul (Marie); Jonathan; Justin (Krysten); Anthony (Natty); Oneshia; Alex; Sebastian; Ethan; great-grandchildren – Maya; Kalia; siblings – Pearline (deceased), Sadie; Nell; Mary; Martha (deceased), Don (deceased), Dave (deceased) along with extended family members and countless friends.
Lionel’s life was truly special to all who knew him.
May his Soul Rest in Eternal Peace while Perpetual Light shines upon him forevermore. Amen.
Psalm 23:4
A funeral service celebrating Lionel’s life will take place at North Bramalea United Church in Brampton on Thursday April 2 at 3:00 p. m. CLICK HERE to view the Funeral Service Livestream.
In lieu of flowers please consider making donations to any charity you choose.
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