Deaconess Viola (Boone) Sykes

She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:

“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all!”

~ Proverbs 31: 26 - 29

Viola Boone Sykes, daughter of the late Charlie and Betty Jacobs Boone, began her journey through life on Saturday, October 8, 1921 in Rich Square (Northampton County), North Carolina.

“Ms. Vi’ or ‘Aunt Vi’, as she was so affectionately called, was educated at W. S. Creecy School, Rich Square, North Carolina, where she graduated in the 1940’s. Realizing the need for a Personal Savior, she gave her life to the Lord early in life. At the tender age of 14, Viola was baptized and she united in Christian Fellowship with the Chapel Hill Baptist Church, where she served faithfully until her health declined. She attended worship services regularly, was a member of the Missionary Ministry and Pastor’s Aide Ministry. “Who can find a virtuous woman? She is worth far more than rubies” (Proverbs 31:10). Viola’s qualities of hard work, fear of God, respect she had for her husband and love for her family - all led her to a life of enjoyment, honor and worth. She was an ordained Deaconess and consecrated Mother of the Church. Deaconess Sykes held this ordination in very high regard, as she was well respected for her guidance and wisdom.

On Valentine’s Day of 1945, Viola was united in Holy Matrimony to the love of her life, Samuel McKinley Sykes, Sr. This union was blessed with three loving children. As a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, Viola was a homemaker and caregiver to her family. She loved her family, especially her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Spending quality time with family brought her great joy. She also loved traveling; notably the trips to Virginia Beach, where she would spend countless hours sitting on the balcony, watching her family down on the beach.

Viola would do anything she could to help those in need and was very supportive in both thought and presence. Her hobbies included working in her yard and maintaining her beautiful flower gardens. She loved gospel music and attended musicals as often as she could. She loved gospel artists like Mahalia Jackson, Luther Barnes and Lee Williams.  “Jesus Cares”, was her favorite song. In addition, she loved listening to country music by Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton.

Viola was known to many by her affection, genuine love and infectious smile, that could easily brighten anyone’s day. Her smile was accompanied by a warm and mild-tempered personality, along with a great fashion sense. Viola loved to dress, with her matching hats and pearls. She was a beautiful person both internally and externally.

Viola was a mother figure to many within her community. Whenever there were family gatherings at her home, she made sure the elder’s in the neighborhood were fed. During her earlier years, Viola was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars - Post 4312 Ladies Auxiliary and the Home Extension Organization of Northampton County (1965 - 1990). She was a past member of the Northampton County NAACP and lifetime member of the Polental Burial Vault League of Chapel Hill.

On Wednesday, April 5, 2023, Viola Boone Sykes peacefully transitioned from this earthly life unto life eternal with the Lord, while in the comfort of her home, with her son and caregivers by her side. In addition to her parents, and beloved husband, she was preceded in death by all of her siblings, Martha B. Gray, Nettie B. Richardson, Percy L. Boone, Judge J. Boone, Lucindy B. Gatling and Everette ‘Jack’ Boone and a special cousin, Ann Moore.

As a loving, nurturing and supportive mother, grandmother and aunt - Viola will be greatly missed. Cherished memories will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. Her legacy will live on and be carried on by: three loving and devoted children, Lois Jean Sykes-Hamilton (Lloyd) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Samuel McKinley Sykes, Jr. of Jackson, North Carolina and Marion L. Sykes-Barnes (Roy) of Henrico, North Carolina; four wonderful grandchildren, Lori Hamilton Harris (George) of Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, McKinley Undrell Sykes (Laura) of Emporia, Virginia, Brandon Nelson Barnes (fiancee’, Lenesha Northington) of Henrico, North Carolina and Latoya Yvette Sykes (Dasha) of Mebane, North Carolina; three adorable great-grandchildren, Jordan Harris of Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, Julius McGee of Mebane, North Carolina and Essence Sykes of Durham, North Carolina; one precious great, great-great-granddaughter, Nyomi; a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Deaconess Sykes' tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

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"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Deaconess Viola Boone Sykes.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

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