

Viola Judy Charisse Micheal Brown, age 30, passed away surrounded by the love of those who knew her best. Born on February 5, 1996, in Queens, New York, Viola spent her childhood attending local schools in New York before moving to Connecticut, where she completed high school. She most recently resided in New Britain, Connecticut, and previously made her home in Waterbury.
Viola was the beloved wife and best friend of Emily Echevarria. Together for 14 years and married for the past three, their love was built on friendship, laughter, unwavering devotion, and an unbreakable bond. Emily was truly the love of Viola's life.
She was the cherished daughter of Crystal McKoy and Michael Brown and was deeply loved by her family and many dear friends. In addition to her parents and wife, Viola is survived by her brothers, Amir Best and Shiheym Eldridge; her beloved uncle, Reggie Moore; three brothers on her father's side; and a large extended family of great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, and countless loved ones whose lives she touched.
Viola was preceded in death by her beloved grandmother, Judy Mae Moore, whose love and guidance left a lasting imprint on her heart. Judy's legacy lived on through Viola, especially in the kitchen, where she lovingly prepared family favorites such as macaroni and cheese and collard greens using the recipes and traditions her grandmother passed down to her.
Viola worked as a baker at Panera Bread, where she shared her passion for creating delicious breads and sweet treats. Baking was more than a career—it was one of the many ways she expressed her love. She also found joy in preparing comforting homemade meals that brought family and friends together and created memories that will be cherished for years to come.
A woman of many talents and interests, Viola loved knitting, nurturing her ever-growing collection of plants with her remarkable green thumb, and capturing the beauty of nature through outdoor photography. She had a special love for animals, especially the two cats she and Emily adored and lovingly cared for together.
Family meant everything to Viola, and she treasured the deep friendships she cultivated throughout her life. She was known for offering thoughtful advice and always wanting the very best for those she loved. Her sassy personality could light up any room and often left everyone laughing. While she was never afraid to speak her mind, everything she said came from a place of honesty, loyalty, and love. She was a natural organizer and leader, someone others looked to for guidance and support.
An avid reader with a lifelong love of learning, Viola genuinely enjoyed school and embraced every opportunity to expand her knowledge. She most recently was furthering her education by becoming an administrative assistant. In her quieter moments, she found happiness watching Korean dramas, getting lost in a good book, tending to her plants, or simply spending quality time with the people she loved most.
Those who knew Viola will remember her warmth, generosity, humor, intelligence, and compassionate spirit. She had a unique way of making people feel seen, cared for, and accepted. Although her time with us was far too short, the love she gave so freely and the countless memories she created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Her legacy will forever be one of love, kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion to the people she held dear.
Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 12:00 p.m. at New Britain Memorial – Donald D. Sagarino Funeral Home, 444 Farmington Avenue, New Britain, Connecticut. Burial will immediately follow at Fairview Cemetery in New Britain.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the many prayers, expressions of love, and acts of kindness shown during this difficult time.
To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.newbritainsagarino.com.
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