Viola Fern Bellon Howie, age, 72, of Lovilia, died on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022, at the Good Samaritan Society in Ottumwa, under the care of Hospice of Davis and Wapello Counties.
Viola was born in Corydon, on Oct. 22, 1950, to John Ambrose and Twila Maxine Haff Bellon. She grew up in Corydon and graduated from the Wayne County High School with the class of 1969. On Nov. 28, 1969, she was united in marriage to James Edward Howie at the First Assemblies of God Church in Corydon. Viola and James were blessed with four children, Chawn, Heather, James R., and Joshua, and shared 53 years of marriage prior to her passing.
Viola worked as a shipping supervisor at Lamont Limited in Burlington for many years. After retiring, she went back to work in food service for the Burlington school district. Viola enjoyed bowling, archery, and needlework. She loved to go for walks in the park with her husband. Above all else, Viola loved her family and Jesus and she cherished all of the time she spent with her family.
Viola is survived by her husband Jim; her four children, Chawn (Bret) Daniel of Bois D’arc, Mo, Heather Burk of Albia, James R. (Loretta Hash) Howie of Springfield, Mo, and Joshua Howie of Burlington; six grandchildren, Caleb (Alicia) Underwood, Rachael Burk, Emily Underwood, Jacob Underwood, Laney Burk, and Alyssa Duke; two great-grandchildren, Nadia Higeons-Vasquez and Theodore Underwood; and siblings, Victor Bellon (her twin) and Carmen Bellon. Viola is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.
Viola was preceded in death by her parents, John and Twila Bellon; brothers, John D., Terry, and Albert; and sisters, Shelby, Leona, and Nancy.
Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Viola’s family present to greet family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia. An open memorial has been established for the family.