Viola M. Anderson-Cole, 92 of Rockford departed this earthly life June 21, 2022. She was born March 15, 1930 in Vaiden, MS; one of 15 children. She was the daughter of Rev. Henry C. McClain Sr., and Octavia "Wilkes" McClain.  Viola married Ernest W. Anderson on September 12, 1953, he preceded her in death. She later married Deacon Clifford Cole in 2003, he preceded her in death. Viola graduated from Winona High School in Mississippi.

Viola leaves to cherish many loving memories, her son, Willis Gregory (Nancy) Anderson; daughter, Kim L. (Aaron) Thomas; stepson, Donald Cole; three grandchildren; two great grandchildren; brothers, Henry McClain, Milton (Kathy) McClain; sisters, Annie Myrtle Seawood, Doris Barnes, Velma Hayes, Wilma Salter and Eloise Brewer; three sisters in law, C. Jeanette Bruce, Claretta Williams and Joyce McClain; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and friends. She was predeceased by  her parents; husbands; three brothers and four sisters.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 30, 2022 at New Zion Missionary Baptist Church 4726 Jasper St. Burial in Willwood Burial Park. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.