It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of May Fayez Flayhan Sadak, who peacefully transitioned on May 10, 2024, at the age of 92, surrounded by her loved ones. Her spirit has left an indelible mark on all who knew her, and her legacy will endure in the hearts of those she touched.

May was born on October 24, 1931, in Sofar, Lebanon, to Fayez and Dora Flayhan, and moved to Raleigh in 1978. Over the decades, she formed countless lasting friendships, with her home affectionately known as the "Grande Hotel," for the generosity and warmth she extended.

How does one summarize the life and meaning of such an extraordinary woman? We can only give a glimpse into the essence of May by sharing what she meant to us: her kindness, grace, compassion, love of family and friends, generosity, enormous hospitality, humor, sense of style, keen eye for good design, and, most of all, her gratitude for life.

May was a force of nature. She exhibited unyielding strength and an insatiable zest for life. Her fierce determination was matched only by her grace. She navigated life with an open heart, embodying the elegance and fortitude of a true matriarch. And yet, May was mischievously playful. Her whimsical nature brought endless bounds of infectious laughter.

She loved to travel. On one of her trips to China, while at a Buddhist temple, a monk signaled her to approach him and placed a white shawl around her neck. This is the energy that May emanated wherever she was.

How could someone so petite leave such a big footprint? Her spirit will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. We miss you beyond words.

May is preceded in death by her husband, Shafic. She is survived by her children, Waleed and Fida, her son-in-law, Ihsan, and her grandchildren, Nina and Gilles.

A service to honor and celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at Renaissance Funeral Home, 7615 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615. A graveside service will be in her birthplace, Lebanon.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lebanese Red Cross.

The family is especially grateful to the staff of Heartland Hospice for their love and compassion during May's illness.