With profound sadness, I am acknowledging the passing of my beloved sister and best friend Viola Lee Kellner, who was born on August 27, 1979, and breathed her last on March 9, 2025. Viola was/ is a radiant soul ( with at times an annoyingly funny smart ass attitude ,  stubborn, incredibly creative and artistic , a huge sense of humor , and fiercely loving personality. Viola left a lasting  mark on all the lives she touched.and everyone that knew her. Viola is survived by her many friends and family. A beloved son Todd Brooklyn of Hawaii, A sister Randi Cronin ( Zach Cronin) nieces Samantha and Reilly  and nephews Tyler , Collin , Liam and Declan. She is also survived by her beloved brothers David Youngquist lll, and Jeffrey Southward;  Aunt Colleen Southward ; nieces Samantha , Reilly and nephews Tyler , Collin , Liam and Declan and last but not least who also grieves her loss, her close cousins Ronnie Gilchrist Jr ( Angie Gilchrist) , Boyd Gilchrist , RJ Gilchrist of Conneaut OH, Larry Gilchrist Jr ( Vickie Gilchrist) of Northeast PA,  Cristin Gilchrist (Erie, PA) Paul Gilchrist (Erie PA), Jennifer Gilchrist ( James ) of Springfield Pa , and lastly Kevin Gilchrist (Baltimore MD) close friends Ella , John Henry of Conneaut Ohio, Jacquelyn Alley (lakecity  PA ) Ryan Evans ( Erie Pa) Mona List ( Girard PA) and WPSD class of 1998/1998. Viola’s infectious laughter and uplifting spirit will be profoundly missed yet fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Her life was a testament to her belief that life is short and should be lived to the fullest. Her philosophy was to love hard and laugh often. Viola bestowed these lessons upon her loved ones with the hope that they live a fulfilled and joyful life, just as she strived to do.

Among Viola’s  many accomplishments, Viola graduated from the prestigious WPSD School for the Deaf in 1998/1999. Her academic achievement earned her a full scholarship to the University of Pittsburgh, where she was going to pursue a professional Art Degree. Viola’s creative spirit and artistic talent brought joy and inspiration to many.

Viola leaves behind a legacy of kindness and extreme love for her family. She created treasured memories that will forever reside in the hearts of those who knew her. Viola's spirit will continue to live on through the enduring love and precious memories she shared with us all.

Viola is preceded in death by her beloved mother Donna Lee Gilchrist/Youngquist, Viola’s great grandma Wade, Her beloved oldest son Johnny Blackwell, and lastly her precious dogs Nipper and Bella . Although Viola’s  physical presence will be missed, the love and laughter she shared carries on as a warm beacon of comfort and hope.

In honor of Viola's rich and impactful life, we pledge to embrace her teachings, to live life to its fullest, to love fearlessly, and to laugh heartily. We will forever cherish the memory of Viola Lee Kellner, a true beacon of strength, love, and life.

Donation’s if offered can be sent to her sister Randi Youngquist to cover Viola’s funeral costs and arrangements .

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