Viola (Starks) Smith

Viola G. (Thompson) Starks Smith made her transition from this world on Thursday, October 26, 2017, after a brief illness. Viola was born in Columbus, Ohio on October 18, 1924. She was the only child of Joseph and Gertrude Thompson. She attended the Columbus Public Schools. Family was so very important to Viola. After being raised as an only child, and having an only child, she was so excited to watch her family grow. She was affectionately called ‘”Gi-Gi” by her family. She was always there to support her family in any way that she could. After retiring from the State Bureau of Unemployment Services as a Claims Investigator, she worked numerous part-time jobs, and then eventually began working at Trinity Baptist in the church office. She worked in the office for 19 years. Viola was a lifelong member of Trinity Baptist Church where she faithfully served as an Usher for many years. She was so very proud when she was chosen to serve as a Deaconess for her church. Later in life, Viola married Samuel Smith who preceded her in death. In addition to her parents, Joseph and Gertrude Thompson, Viola was also preceded in death by her brother-in-law and friend, James Starks; and former husband Attrice Starks. She is survived by her loving son William Bill Starks and daughter-in-law Judy; granddaughters, Tracy Starks-Nesmith and Marisa (Billy Jr.) Gray; great grandchildren, Kinsley Nesmith, Jalen Nesmith, and Kennedi Gray; special in-law Mae Frances White and a host of other relatives, dear friends, and the Trinity Baptist Church family.