Viola Kelly

Viola Kelly, born on January 23, 1943, in North Carolina, passed away peacefully from natural causes on December 27, 2025, in her home in Dallas, NC, at the age of 82. A dedicated mother and cherished grandmother, Viola was the heart of her family, known for her warmth and endless caring nature.

With a high school diploma, Viola made her mark in the world of customer service, spending many years in phone sales, where her friendly voice and genuine charm left a lasting impression on everyone she spoke with.

Viola loved to cook, and her kitchen was often filled with the delicious aromas of her favorite dishes. She had a knack for sewing and took great joy in creating clothes for her loved ones. Her family was her pride and joy, and they knew her as a fabulous storyteller who loved to gossip, sharing laughter and love during their time together.

Her adventurous spirit often took her on trips out west to visit family in California and Las Vegas, creating beautiful memories along the way. To many, she was like a second mother, providing wisdom and support to those who needed it.

She is survived by her loving son, James Douglas and Luz Douglas, brother, Willie Douglas, and her beloved grandchildren, Shayla Rogers Sapp and Yasi Sapp, and James J. Douglas, step-grandchildren, Sean Duncan, Jose Luis, and Juan Mancera, and a host of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service officiated by Rev. Sam Barnette, will be held to honor Viola's remarkable life on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Greene Funeral Service South Chapel - 1503 S. York Rd., Gastonia, NC 28052. Following the service, the family will receive friends at the funeral home.

While we mourn her loss, we will always celebrate the love, laughter, and warmth she brought into our lives. Rest in peace, Viola. You will be dearly missed.

Viola was preceded in death by: her parents, Augusta and Viola Douglas, husband, Lee Kelly, brothers, Howard Douglas and Robert Douglas, and sisters, Hattie Lee Malloy, and Mattie Mae Douglas.

Condolences may be made online at www.greenefuneral.com