Cammille Matthias Obituary, Death – Viola May Ellison, our dear matriarch, breathed her last breath on Tuesday, March 30, 2021, with family by her side. Viola Sollars was born in Amazonia, Missouri on July 23, 1929 to John and Viola (Parker) Sollars. Viola married Carl Harrison Ellison after he returned from the war on October 16, 1946. Carl’s lovely smile and adorable huge ears won her over despite the fact that she had her pick of suitors. They purchased a tiny house and began their lives together. They faced successes and challenges, but their love endured. They worked together to help others and selflessly adopted and cared for children in need of a stable and loving home. Carl worked multiple jobs to provide for his increasing family. Viola was able to do what she did best because of his constant support: be a mother. Generations of North Enders call her Grandma. She was everybody’s grandmother.
Grandma’s life’s work was to raise children. No one was refused entry. She accepted humans in the same manner that others might accept stray cats. For her, family was defined by connections and affection rather than blood. She led by example and Grandma-isms as the proud matriarch of the close-knit North End community. (“Quit picking your nose, Francis.”) Her voice was distinct and instantly recognisable. She wasn’t a singer, but her performances of “You Are My Sunshine” and “Rock-A-Bye Baby” while softly rocking babies to sleep will live on in our memories. Her death has left a void in many people’s hearts, and the world will never be the same. Grandma, your job here is finished. We shall carry on your tradition of unselfish generosity and never-ending care as your tribe. Go see Grandpa; he’s missed you.
Viola was predeceased by her parents, John and Viola, as well as her siblings and three children, Carl Raymond, John Ellison, and Teresa Ellison. Her extended family and friends live and mourn her loss. Henry Sollars, Joe (and Gayle, spouse) Sollars, and Susie (Sollars) Gentry are siblings. Robin (Ellison) Rickerson, Lisa Sollars, and Karen (Sollars) Whittington are their daughters. John Ellison, Tessa (Ellison) Wilson, Elise (Ellison) Cline, Faline (Rickerson) Brimer, Ashley (Rickerson) Matthias, and Max Sollars are the grandchildren. Jake Ellison, Courtnee Ellison, Colton George, Hannah Wekamp, Jackson Power, Fynlee Wilson, Boston Cline, Truman Cline, Lincoln Cline, Harrison Brimer, Maverick Brimer, Nora Matthias, Wyatt Matthias, Camille Matthias are among the great-grandchildren. Mylah Whisenand, Journey Whisenand, Cash Ellison, Winnie Ellison, Payden George, and Beau George are the great-great-grandchildren. Marilyn Power is her best buddy. Services for the Deceased 2:00 P.M.
Simplify Cremations & Funerals on the Avenue on Thursday (formerly Stamey Funeral Home). Grandma has chosen cremation. Her ashes will be interred beside her husband at a later date in St. John’s Cemetery in Amazonia, Missouri. We invite friends and family to join us for a visitation on Wednesday evening, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., at Simplify Cremations & Funerals. In honour of Viola’s dedication to the care of children and families, the family begs that any gifts be donated to Noyes Home of St. Joseph. Simplifyfunerals.com has an obituary and an online guestbook.