Viola R. White

Viola R. White daughter of Edward and Clara Harrell was born on October 29, 1918 in Baltimore, Maryland. She departed this life on January 6, 2017 after a lengthy illness. She received an 8th grade education in the Baltimore City Schools and later obtained her GED. She worked as a Practical Nurse for over 30 yrs. Two of her employers included Col. Anderson who owned a private duty nursing agency and Johns Hopkins Hospital. She was a life long member of New Psalmist Baptist Church and joined the church as a young woman under Rev. Gray when the church was located on Riggs Avenue. She remained a faith-full member until her death. While being a member under Bishop Walter S. Thomas she was very active in the church and was a member of Gray's Memorial Choir, the Nurses Auxiliary, and the Usher Board. Viola also performed in 3 plays with the Theatre Group and is most remembered for her rendition of Aunt Tilly. In addition, she was a member of the Prayer Service Committee and sang every week during the noon-day service. She married the late Elmer White, and out of this union one daughter was born, Juanita. Viola was also a member of the Eastern Star and was a "Jack of all trades". She was a seamstress, mechanic, cook to name a few. Her true passion was music and she joined her first choir at the age of sixteen. When she turned 75 yrs old she took lessons and learned to play the piano and organ. Her second love was dancing. She loved all forms of dancing. At the age of 85, she performed a belly dance for the Sandtown Senior Center. Viola always said, even though I am a senior, I feel like I'm only "25 yrs" old. She purchased her 1st and only car, a 66 Chevrolet Malibu, which she drove for over 40 yrs. She also laughed about people wanting to buy her car. Her favorite story is when she was stopped by a police officer, and he asked to buy her car. It was eventually sold on EBay when she was 88 yrs. old. Viola also enjoyed watching sports. Her favorite was baseball and she was an avid fan of the Baltimore Orioles. Viola made numerous friends wherever she went. She was a person that told the truth but would not hurt any one's feelings. After having a massive stroke at age 94, Viola lost her voice and the use of her left side. She did not become bitter. She learned to communicate with her head, eyes and right hand. She would always wave her hand to say hello to everyone. But make no mistake if she was mad she would make a fist to let you know. She was truly, devoted family woman. She is survived by her grandchildren, Shelley, Debbra, Joseph, David, Kelly, eleven great-grandchildren, seven great-great grandchildren, nieces, one nephew; Afred Pratt, and a host of other relatives and friends.

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Viola R. White

October 29, 1918 - January 6, 2017