She was born March 29. 1937, in Memphis, Tenn. to Naomi Brown and shortly thereafter adopted. She was raised as an only child in West Memphis, AR. At the age of 13, Viola reconnected with her birth mother and biological sisters and from that point on remained connected until her mother’s death.
In 1954, Viola married Chester Cosby and together they had seven children. In 1958, they participated in the great migration north to Chicago.
After divorcing in 1983, Viola committed herself to her family while also enjoying her newfound independence.
Viola is survived by her children Chester (Veronica) Cosby Jr. of Chicago, JoAnn Weaver of Chicago, Laurence (Felicia) Cosby of Waukegan, Marvin Cosby of Oakland, CA, Karen (Kenneth) Boone of Round Lake and Sherilyn (Richard) Matthews of Waukegan. She was a grandmother to 16 grandchildren Chenice Cathery, Charice Cathery, Shawn Cathery, Jason Weaver, Jasmin Weaver, Justin Weaver, Daarius Stingley, Dion Stingley, Djuan King, Devon King, Derrick Stanley Jr., Bryan Thompson, Kejuan Cosby, Lauren Dillon and Javell Cosby and a host of great-grandchildren.
She will be dearly missed by her favorite niece, Ruby Dennies, sisters Mary Jones, Rosie (Gregory) Luss, Ruth Parks, nieces, nephews and the many friends she gained throughout the years.
She was predeceased by her son Bryan Cosby (1963-1963), her birth and adopted parents and her grandson Davell Roberts.
Her family will be having a private ceremony, followed by a celebration of life event held at a later date.
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