Vivia Mitchell

Vivia Joy Mitchell was born on August 3rd, 1941 and peacefully passed away on December 19th, 2020 at the age of 79.  She was born in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica to Ermine Williams and Newton Holness. Vivia made her way to the UK in 1962, boarding in Tottenham and joined by her cousin Veronica. Vivia left the UK and migrated to the USA in 1977, encouraged by her lifelong friend Pearl. She was later joined by her son and her husband.

Viv was like a mother to her four brothers. She and her cousins, Veronica, Cherry, and Rose continued the close relationship their mothers had as sisters. Vivia was a loving mother to her only son, Stephen Lee -  who she worked and prayed relentlessly for. As a wife, she loved her husband, Tony. Her life revolved around him, especially when he fell ill.

She was like an adoptive mother to Ann and Carol, who loved her as passionately as she loved them. She relied on them in many ways, and they were there for her 100% of the time. Her nephew, Selvin, became her dependable right hand and Tanisha her trusted left.

Vivia has 11 grandchildren -  Leon Lee, Steve Lee, Omar Lee, Keishana Lee, Jodi Lee, Rashana Lee, Adrian Lee, Daniel Lee, Christopher Lee, Nathaniel Lee and Antonio Lee. She has 10 great-grandchildren - Kiara Burke, Kayla Burke, Kayden Burke, Kingsley Paul, Hannah Rankine, Lauren Haynes, Liam Haynes, Zion Lee, Lydia Lee and Khalfani Lee. She loved her grandchildren dearly and was the strongest person they have ever met. They are so blessed to experience the love of a “Grama”.

Vivia retired as a secretary from a law firm, a job which she secured after attending secretarial school. She loved her job and developed a lasting connection with some of the ladies she worked with. Retirement gave Viv the time to serve her church, Rugby  Deliverance Tabernacle.

When life changed, her kindness was rewarded and she had volunteers who dropped in. Her cousins, Nev and Viv helped her maintain her home as a labor of love after it became too difficult for her to manage. In addition, her cousin Coleen helped with errands and business affairs.  Vivia had shown loved and cared so much for so many, she was able to call on a handful of family members whom would come in a heart beat to help with whatever was needed. Whether it was to get groceries, doctor appointments or a ride to the bank.

Vivia was known for her delicious cooking. So many were drawn to her, she fed so many people on Sundays. She loved to cook.

For many years to come, the mention of the name Vivia Mitchell will conjure up the image of love for those of us left behind. She wore the hats of many - Viv, auntie Viv, Grandma Viva, Sister Mitchell. Viv was the model for us on how to be Godly women, wives, mothers, friends and confidantes.

Vivia is survived by her loving and devoted family and friends.

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