Mother Viola Davis a devote follower of Christ, life's journey on this earth ended early evening on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 and went to heaven to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Just prior to her passing, those who loved her were at her bedside or lifting her up in prayer. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and will be greatly missed by all her family and friends.

Mother Davis was born April 26, 1916, to a Christian mother, Anna Shacklefoot and Charlie Williams in Shabogley, Mississippi, both preceded her in death. Mother Davis was born the fifth child of 14; and was preceded in death by 10 brothers and sisters.

Mother Davis spent her formative years in Mississippi, and gave birth to one biological daughter, Ruthie Mae Gibson (who preceded her in death in 2008). Mother was part of the great Second Great Migration from Mississippi. She was among the more than five million African Americans who moved to cities in states in the North, Midwest and West, including many to Chicago and California which offered skilled jobs in the defense industry. Most of these migrants were already urban laborers who came from the cities of the South. They were better educated and had superior skills compared to those of non-migrants. In addition, African Americans were still treated brutally in the South, and many sought to escape this. They were black Mississippians, who settled now on the streets of Chicago's west side.

Not soon after her arrival to Chicago, Mother met and married Harry Davis, who preceded her in death in 1968. Although Harry Davis was a good provider, she held many jobs and worked as a Housekeeper, Maid, Domestic Worker caring for children; and her last job was in the Textile Industry where she worked for a Glove Manufacturer. Mother Davis, a self-taught seamstress, sewed clothing for many of her friends and relatives. This was a talent she was able to pass on with her sister, daughter and grandchildren.

Mother was known to the masses as "Aunt Boo," and with an 8th grade education she was an avid reader with a voracious appetite for the written word, especially the Word of God right up to her Promotion to Glory. Although she did not have the privilege of a high school education, she knew the value of knowledge and education and instilled it in the many children she mothered.

In 1954 Mother Davis was baptized in the name of Jesus, under the leadership and guidance of Bishop Charles E. and Mattie B. Poole at Bethlehem Healing Temple. Until her death she was the oldest living member of the original Lake Street Saints. She received the Holy Ghost and promptly began the mission of bringing her siblings, nieces, cousins and everyone who would listen to the Lord. She had the love of God instilled in her by her Pastors and she wanted everyone she knew to have her same experience. She loved her church home, and remained a faithful servant until God called her to paradise.

As a grandmother, she ensured her grandchildren were in the church pews every Sunday where they learned and grew to Love the Lord. Four of her daughter's children preceded her in death. Mother Davis was a passionate loving woman who shared her passion and love with so many. Her love for children was only preceded by her love for God. She was an adoptive Mom, a foster Mom, foster Grandmother and Godmother to many and her door was always open, not just for the children in her immediate family that had needs; but to any child that needed love, a bed, hot meal, or just a warm embrace.

Mother Viola Davis' memory will always be cherished by all who loved her. Her sisters, Varna Bruce, Margaret Williams and brother Robert Williams are left to treasure her memory. Also, her grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and numerous adopted children and grandchildren will forever cherish her memory and miss her dearly.

Visitation Saturday, March 16, 2013, from 9 a.m. until the time of the Service at 10 a.m. at Greater Bethlehem Healing Temple, 12 South Oakley, Chicago, IL 60612. For further information 312-421-0936.