Viola Elaine (Williams) Telfair

Viola Elaine Telfair

1939 - 2026

Viola Elaine Telfair, 87, peacefully transitioned on April 28, 2026, at Ochsner Kenner Medical Center, surrounded by the love of her family and her pastor.

Viola Elaine Telfair was born on February 22, 1939, in Reserve, Louisiana, to the late James and Edna Williams. She was the firstborn of nine children and lovingly helped care for her siblings while supporting her parents from an early age. She accepted Christ at an early age and lived a life rooted in faith, love, and service. She was united in holy matrimony to her devoted husband, Isiah Telfair Jr., for over 65 years, sharing a lifetime of love, family, and cherished memories. She remained an active member of New Pilgrim Baptist Church until her health declined.

Throughout her years of service, she worked faithfully in ministry as the Vacation Bible School Director and assisted with organizing VBS programs at surrounding churches. She also served as Director of Youth Ministry and led the Junior Choir for many years. Viola was known for directing the annual Christmas play for her church and community, a tradition she carried out with dedication and joy until her health no longer allowed. She also shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ as a guest speaker at many churches, touching lives wherever she went.

She was a proud graduate of Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she graduated magna cum laude and earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with a concentration in Mathematics. With a passion for learning and teaching, she continued her academic journey at Southeastern Louisiana University, where she received her Master’s Degree in Math and Science.

Viola was a devoted educator who entered the St. John the Baptist Parish School Board system in 1969 and served for 36 years. During her distinguished career, she shaped the lives of countless students with wisdom, patience, and care. Her dedication and leadership in education led her to serve as Head of the Mathematics Department at East St. John High School, where she influenced both students and fellow educators. She was fondly remembered by her students for her memorable sayings: “You’re not going to learn this by osmosis, little people,” “An empty barrel makes the most noise,” and “Don’t touch my unit—I have to be in here all day!”

In her quiet time, she found joy in watching her favorite mystery television shows and reading her Bible, drawing strength and peace from her faith. Her favorite scripture was:“Greater is He that is within me than he that is in the world.” — 1 John 4:4

Viola was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a cherished mother-in-law, a beloved grandmother, and a proud great-grandmother. Her life was marked by compassion, strength, and deep love for her family. She had a heart full of selflessness and often expressed that she would give her life for her children—a reflection of the unconditional love she carried every day.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Edna Williams; her sisters, Kitty May, Julia May Williams, and Jessie May Smith; and her brother, George Williams.

Viola leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Isiah Telfair Jr.; her children, Lucretia Telfair-Scott (Kevin Sr.) and KoJuvona Telfair-Singleton (Milton Jr.); her grandchildren, Davin Telfair, Kevin Scott Jr., Taylor Singleton, and Tyler Singleton; her great-grandchildren, Kaisley Scott, Mason, and Maziyon LeBen; her siblings, James Williams Jr. (Janice), Audrey Vinnett (Charles), Matthew Williams (Jackie), and Ruth Ann Williams; her brother-in-law, Joseph Smith Sr.; along with a host of extended family, former students, and dear friends.

Though she is no longer with us physically, her love will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” - Matthew 25:23

Relatives and friends of the family, Pastors, officers and members of New Pilgrim Baptist Church, all neighboring Churches and employees of St. John the Baptist Parish School Board are invited to attend the Home Going Celebration at 11:00am on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at New Pilgrim Baptist Church, 107 Pilgrim Street, Reserve, LA 70084.  Pastor Forell Bering, Sr.- Officiant.  Visitation will begin at 9:00am until the time of service at the above-named Church.  Entombment St. John Memorial Gardens, 2205 W. Airline Hwy, Laplace, LA  70068.  Final Arrangements entrusted to Patrick H Sanders Funeral Home & Funeral Directors, LLC.  605 Main Street, Laplace, LA  70068.  985-359-1919.  "Providing Care & Comfort is Our Highest Mission."

There will also be a visitation from 4:00pm to 6:00pm on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Patrick H Sanders Funeral Home.  605 Main Street, Laplace, LA 70068