Viola Mae Johnson-Griffin was born on May 2, 1953, to Clarence Johnson and Eva Mae Smither-Johnson in Huntsville, Texas. Viola was the fifth of ten children. She joined the Greater Zion Family at a young age under the leadership of Rev. O.A. Lilly. She attended Huntsville High School, Class of 1972, where she played the Clarinet in the band.

Viola worked for approximately 23 plus years for Huntsville Memorial Hospital until her accident in 1994. At which time she retired from her Supervisory position for the Dietary Department.

In 1978, she united in marriage to Clarence Griffin. To this union, 2 beautiful girls were born: Natasha and Ashley Griffin.

On October 22, 2022, she transitioned to her eternal home to be with the Lord and Savior of her life.  Where she is in peace and resting from her earthly pain and suffering.  Viola was preceded in death by her parents and 4 siblings and 1 grandson, Kaiden.  She leaves to cherish her memories: 2 daughters: Natasha Griffin and Ashley Griffin; 6 grandkids: Tyler, Janavia, Janya, Jordan, Royalty, and Jurnee; 2 brothers: William Johnson and Wilbert Johnson; 3 sisters: Marjorie Johnson, Mildred Johnson, Carol Johnson, 1 sister-in-law, Clara Moring, and a host of nieces, nephews, additional relatives and friends.