Viola (Macklin) Boyd was born on June 29th 1928 to the late Lawrence Macklin and Vinnie Lee Taylor in Prince George's County Virginia. She had 1 sibling, her older sister Louise whom she loved and adored.

Viola married the late Herman Gilbert Boyd on July 10th 1950, they had 6 children: Ben James Boyd (deceased), Vinnie M. Davis (deceased), James Boyd (deceased), Herman Nelson Boyd (deceased), Milton S. Boyd (deceased), Douglas Grant Boyd (deceased), and Brenda Diane Boyd.

Viola came to Boston in 1967 at the urging of her daughter Vinnie for medical care with her 2 youngest children. Her husband soon followed with the older 2 children. Viola was a devoted mother and grandmother who would selflessly pause her own work to care for her grandchildren whenever needed. She was the heart of her family, always finding a way to make things happen, no matter the request.

From an early age, Viola developed a deep love for fishing—a passion that stayed with her throughout her life. She would eagerly venture out with her aunt, friends, and family, creating treasured memories along the way. Even into her 90s, Viola could be found casting her line, often accompanied by her grandchildren and nephew Calvin who made the journey to Boston for the first day of fishing season.

Viola had a gift for making people feel cared for, whether through her cooking—her homemade biscuits and fried chicken were legendary—or her acts of kindness. She couldn't bear to see anyone hungry or in need, and she ensured that every child she encountered had clean clothes and a full belly. Her love for elephants became a family tradition, with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren bringing her elephant keepsakes from their travels.

After the loss of her husband, Viola found renewed purpose in her golden years. She joined a fishing club, where she proudly held the title of the oldest member, and participated in "Little Brothers, Friends of the Elderly," where she was deeply cherished. There she also gained a true friend and family member in David Voss, who went above and beyond for her. They truly lived up to their name.

Viola's zest for life led her to attend plays, movies, dance performances, and dinners with her daughters and granddaughters. The annual family gatherings were also a highlight of her year, and she never missed an opportunity to celebrate with her loved ones. Viola was known for her wisdom and humor, often sharing her colorful sayings, such as, "That's your little red wagon; you say you're grown, so you can push it or pull it!" She brought joy and laughter to all who knew her and will be profoundly missed.

In the last three years, Viola was cared for by the Armenian Nursing and Rehab Facility where she received the care, assistance and support she needed.

Viola leaves behind her daughter Brenda (Anne)Boyd. Her nephews Calvin Macklin and Arnold Gee, and niece Everleen Cook. Her grandchildren, Pannie, Kevin (Bevette), Shawn, Keith (Theresa), Vanessa, Kendall, BJ, Takiyah, Sydney, Michael, Marvin, Kevanna, Renee, Adrian, Jahcelynn and Angel. 41 Great grands children, 15 great, great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Viola's legacy of love and generosity, and unwavering spirit will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.