Viola Julia Byron

She was born and raised in London Ontario; the only daughter in a family of three brothers. She made many lifelong friendships in London, and kept in close contact with these friends (affectionately known as “the gang”).

Viola was a spiritual, kind and generous lady, always putting the needs of her family at the forefront. Her three sons and four grandchildren were her pride and joy. She was widely known for her love of baking, strong work ethic, determination, and always being the first to volunteer to help out. No matter the occasion, Viola would be there, often with a pan of fresh brownies or other home-made treats.

Viola began her career as a part time sales associate with Reitmans when she was a young mother, and proceeded to work her way through the ranks, eventually becoming the Regional Manager for Atlantic Canada. Her career took her and her boys throughout Ontario, and Atlantic Canada, and after 27 years of service she retired to London in 2000. Many of her across-Canada colleagues from Reitmans remain among her closest friends.

Family was everything to Viola and she was happiest when spending time with her family, hosting and attending get togethers. She enjoyed a close relationship with her mother until her mother’s death. She was predeceased by her mother Florence (Reid) and father Nicolas, and her brothers, Michael Falagario (Sharron) from London, Albert “Sonny” Falagario (Susan) of Woodstock and Harold Bartlett (Eleanor) of London. She loved her brothers dearly, even though they teased her relentlessly!

Viola is survived by “her boys”, Paul (Lise) from Guelph ON, Peter from Sudbury ON, and Kenneth (Tara-Lynn) from Dartmouth NS, and her grandchildren, Cory (Meghan) Newmarket ON, Sean (Tegan) Ottawa ON, Matthew (Dartmouth NS) and Julia (Dartmouth NS). She is also survived by sisters-in-law Sharron, Susan, and Eleanor and Anne Rokeby-Thomas (David) from Nelson BC as well as many nieces and nephews.

For the last nine years, Viola enjoyed spending time with her dear friend John MacLeod. They attended plays, and shared a love of travel which took them near and far.

Viola was an avid and enthusiastic volunteer, dedicating much time to the VON, Meals on Wheels, and a local children’s school breakfast program. She was also a faithful member of St Michael and All Angels Anglican Church and held leadership positions at the church for which she was very proud.

The family would especially like to thank John MacLeod for his kindness to Viola and for the companionship they shared; Viola’s caring neighbours who watched out for her and helped her live an independent life; Rev. Sam Thomas (St. Michael and All Angels Anglican Church, London ON) for his friendship and spiritual guidance; and Dr. Liam and nurse Brendan from LHSC who were at our mothers bedside comforting her when we couldn’t.

A service to celebrate the life of Viola will be later in 2020 when gathering restrictions are lifted.

In lieu of flowers, donations directed to Meals-on-Wheels London ON or to St. Michael and All Angels Anglican Church London ON would be appreciated. Tributes may be made at www.needhamfuneralhome.com