Viola (Madewell) Jones

  Viola Madewell Jones was born in Palestine, Texas, in 1941, to Julia Mae Holt and Albert Madewell. She was the second eldest of four; siblings being Lena Montgomery, Saundra Waller, and Billy Duncan.

  In her formidable years, she attended school in Matador, Texas, and in 1956, she along with her family moved to Weatherford, Texas. She met and married Leroy Jones in 1960 and a few years later, had one child, DaLana Jones. During her marriage to Leroy, Viola attended beauty school and was a Beauty Operator for several years.

  As fulfilling as being a daughter, beloved wife, mother, and Nana may have been, her faith was first and foremost. From Viola's earliest years, she embraced God's love with open arms. Her faith was not just a part of her life; it was the foundation upon which she built everything else. As it says in Proverbs 31:25-26, "Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue." These words could have been written about Viola. She faced life's challenges with strength and grace, always trusting in God's plan.

  Viola's faith was not passive; it was a living, breathing part of her daily life. She taught Sunday school in her early years, along with leading praise and worship, and ministering at the Juvenile Hall for Boys. She held Bible study groups in her home for over 50 years, welcoming people of all walks of life. A favorite Bible verse of hers was Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." And indeed, with God's strength, there seemed to be nothing Viola couldn't do.

  Viola's home was always open, a haven for those in need of spiritual comfort or a counselor.

  She lived by the words of Colossians 1:27: "To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."

  As a mother and Nana, Viola was a spiritual guide. She taught her family to pray, to seek God's wisdom in all things, and to trust in His love. Even in her final days, as she faced her illness, Viola's faith never wavered. She faced death not with fear, but with the serene certainty of one who knows they are going home.

  As we say goodbye to Viola, we take comfort in knowing that she is now in the arms of her Savior. As it says in 2 Timothy 4:7-8, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness." Viola, we miss you deeply, but we rejoice knowing that you are now in paradise. Your faith continues to inspire us, and we strive to live by your example. Until we meet again in God's kingdom, rest in His eternal peace.

  A visitation in honor of Viola will be held at Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel, in Weatherford, Texas, on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

   A funeral service will take place at the funeral chapel the following day, Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., with burial to follow at East Greenwood Cemetery, in Weatherford, Texas.