Viola Levetta Locke

Born June 23, 1961 – Passed May 28, 2025

Viola Levetta Locke—a loving wife, mother, and grandmother—passed away peacefully on May 28th in Saint Louis, Missouri. Born on June 23, 1961, to David and Betty (Griffin) Balcom, she grew up learning the value of hard work, resilience, and treating everyone like family—qualities she carried with grace throughout her life.

For many years, Viola was the warm, welcoming face at Midwest Petroleum, where she built lasting friendships with coworkers and customers alike. Her regulars often said stopping in to fuel up felt more like visiting a dear friend. Known for her sharp wit, radiant smile, and unwavering strength, Viola faced every challenge life brought her with stubborn determination—including her final illness.

She was greeted in Heaven by her parents, David and Betty (Griffin) Balcom; in-laws John and Willia (Decker) Maxwell; mother-in-law Naomi (Rainey) Locke; sister-in-law Brenda (Locke) Woodruff; brother-in-law John Witt; step-daughter Desirea Locke; and nephews James Witt, Douglas Witt, and John “Butch” Woodruff Jr.

Cherishing her memory:

• Her devoted husband, Kevin Locke

• Children:

• Michael Balcom (Courtney) – grandsons Brody, Brice, Brendon

• Maranda Maxwell – grandsons Gage, Holden

• Step-son Michael Johnson (Katherine) – grandchildren Amanda, Blake

• Granddaughter Evelyn

• Brother David Balcom (fiancée Tammy) – nephew Justin; great-nephews Cole, Cavanaugh

• Sister-in-law Pamela Witt – niece Rebecca Zenthoefer (William); great-nephew Tyler

• Brother-in-law Tyrus Maxwell – niece Tresa; great-nephew Peyton

•Brother-in-law Tom (Karen) Locke and their children.

• Countless extended family, friends, and former customers who will forever remember her warmth, humor, and generous heart

“Now she flies with the butterflies, beauty in her wings.

She swims with dolphins in waters wide and blue.

Her story may have ended, but her spirit still sings—

In every quiet moment, she’s with us too.”

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