May 1, 1927 - September 30, 2020

Roma Viona Early

Roma Viona Early, 93, of West Memphis, Arkansas, passed away on September 30, 2020. Services are scheduled for Monday, October 5, at First Baptist Church of West Memphis, with visitation from 8:00AM to 12:00PM and the service beginning at Noon. Interment will follow at Salem Cemetery in the Sylva Rena community near Water Valley, Mississippi. Roller-Citizens Funeral Home of West Memphis, Arkansas, is in charge of arrangements.

Viona was the daughter of Charles Lafayette Early and Eva Gertrude Brown Early of Water Valley, Mississippi. She was preceded in death by her parents; her four brothers, Charles Lafayette Early, Jr., William Gerald Early, Harold Vance Early, and Wayne Curtis Early; and her five sisters, Pauline Early Bloodworth, Myrtle Early Burns, Zola Early Fielder, Loyce Early Raulerson, and Lynrose Early Williamson.

Viona is survived by her nieces and nephews: Mable Hunter, Leta Brignole (Guy), Sandra Bloodworth (Fred May), Lanell Early, Susan Blackledge (George), Carol Scruggs, Betty Hollingsworth (Wayne), Nancy Hignite, Pam Covington, Kathy Vallish (Dan), Jan Raulerson, Billy Early (Nellie), Blake Fielder, Kim Fielder and Brad Fielder. These nieces and nephews remember their Aunt Vi as a loving, thoughtful aunt who exemplified her strong Christian faith and encouraged their love of reading. She always remembered all family members, especially the children, with Christmas gifts.

Viona graduated from Water Valley High School and attended Northwest Community College in Senatobia, Mississippi. She graduated from Delta State University with a degree in Elementary Education. She taught in elementary schools in Mississippi and Arkansas for 38 years. Viona's Christian faith was the foundation of her activities: at First Baptist Church, she taught first and fourth grade Sunday school classes, participated in Sanctuary and Keenager choirs, served on numerous committees, and worked in the church library. Viona's family and friends will remember her faith, her service, and her love for others.

Roller-Citizens Funeral Home will be following guidelines issued by the Arkansas Department of Health and the CDC regarding COVID-19. Social distancing of at least six feet must be practiced and all funeral attendees must provide and wear their own masks.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
201 North Pine Street
West Memphis, AR  72303
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com