PORTSMOUTH—Mary Ann Manning Viola, a lifelong resident of Portsmouth, VA, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on February 4, 2024, at the age of 84. Mary Ann is survived by her husband of 62 years, Pat J. Viola; her daughter, Mary Beth Viola Rhodes; her "#1 Son-In-Law", Alan Rhodes; her two granddaughters, Meghan and Erynn Rhodes; along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Mary Ann was born on December 24, 1939 and was raised by her grandparents Frank and Harriet Cunningham. Her aunt, Mae Wakefield, was a very prominent influence throughout her life as well. She was a 1958 graduate of Saint Paul's Catholic High School and went on to become a member of the alumni association. On September 22, 1962, she married her loving husband, Pat J. Viola, at Saint Paul Catholic Church.

Mary Ann and Pat have been dedicated lifetime members of the Saint Paul community. On November 21, 1963, Mary Ann and Pat welcomed their beautiful daughter, Mary Beth. Mary Ann was very involved in Mary Beth's many activities, including coaching Mary Beth's high school cheer squad.

Mary Ann was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to many. In later years, she founded a successful real estate company: Mary Ann Viola Real Estate. Upon retirement, Mary Ann was exceptionally active in her granddaughters' lives- between being the "head cheerleader" at Meghan's softball games, family vacations to Ocean City, sleepovers and giving "her girls" glamorous makeovers, and everything in between. Additionally, she enjoyed gardening, taking trips to the Williamsburg pottery, shopping at Ross, baking cakes for neighbors (and her favorite postal worker), and never forgetting to send out a birthday or holiday card. Mary Ann was always willing to support the funeral reception team, led by her dear friend Cindy Pauler. Mary Ann enjoyed her nightly phone conversations with her beloved friends, Dee and Judy, during which they solved "many problems of the world".

Mary Ann loved her family unconditionally and without reservations. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

A visitation with the family will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 7, at Foster Funeral Home, on High St. A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 8, at Saint Paul Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Mary Ann Manning Viola Scholarship Fund at Portsmouth Catholic Regional School. Donations may be mailed to: 2301 Oregon Avenue, Portsmouth, VA 23701. (Note: Please write "Viola Scholarship" on the notes line of your check.) Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.