Franklin – Viola Fowler Johnson, 91, passed away January 13, 2019 in the East Pavilion.  Viola was born in Southampton County and was a daughter of the late William Joseph and Goldie Lee Duncan Fowler.  She was predeceased by her husband Alton Lee "Bud" Johnson, a daughter Ella Mae Johnson Ashworth and brothers Bill, David, Rochelle, Charles, and Oscar and sisters Edna, Della, and Barbara Ann.  Viola attended The Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind as a child and would go back for reunions throughout the years.  She was a retired nurse's aide and a long-time member of Franklin Baptist Church.

Left to cherish her memory is a son-in-law Elbert Ashworth; two grandchildren Angeliea Collier (Stuart) and Alton Keith Ashworth; three great grandchildren Jason Collier, Peyton Collier, and Emma Grace Ashworth; one brother Mickey Fowler; and many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11AM Thursday, January 17, 2019 in Franklin Baptist Church with the Rev. Steve Gibson officiating.  Burial will be private.  The family will receive friends Wednesday from 6-8PM in Wright Funeral Home and suggests memorial donations be made to Franklin Baptist Church or The Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind, 104 VSDB Drive, Staunton, VA 24401.  www.wrightfuneralhome.org