November 7, 2025, 87, Goldsboro —
Viola Hales King went home to be with her Lord and Savior peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025, at her home. Viola was born in Wayne County on June 19, 1938, to the late Clifton Edward Hales and Mary Gertrude Evans Hales. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Dee King; brothers, Carl Ray Hales, Ed Hales, and Kenneth “Shorty” Hales; and her sister, Christine Goetze.
Viola’s life was a beautiful reflection of her unwavering faith and love for the Lord. She was a devoted member of The First Pentecostal Holiness Church in Goldsboro, where she faithfully served in many ministries over the years. She participated in the Women’s Ministries and Jolly Seniors, and most recently found great fulfillment serving on the hospitality and bereavement meal committees. Viola’s heart was always turned toward serving her Savior and His people, and she sought to honor Him in all that she did. Her steadfast faith, gentle spirit, and servant’s heart touched countless lives, offering comfort and compassion to those in need.
Before retirement, Viola had been a valued employee of Burlington Industries in Goldsboro and later worked with Burlington Shoes in Berkeley Mall. She carried her same spirit of diligence and kindness into every aspect of her work life, earning the respect of her coworkers and friends.
Above all, Viola cherished her family. Time spent around the table, sharing food, laughter, and love, brought her great joy. She will be remembered as the best mama, MeMa, great-grandma and sister — a woman whose love for her family was second only to her love for the Lord.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday November 11, 2025 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. at The First Pentecostal Holiness Church, followed by a service celebrating Viola’s life at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary, with Rev. Bill Rose officiating. Interment will follow in the Hales Family Cemetery.
Viola is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Debbie and Terry Brake, and Phyllis and Mike Smith; grandchildren, Adam Brake and wife, Jessica; Hunter Smith and wife, Patricia; and Miranda Pate and husband, Christian; and great-grandchildren, Addison Smith and Cason Pate. She was joyfully anticipating the birth of another great-grandchild, Miller Rae, on December 1, 2025. She is also survived by her sisters, Sheila Price and husband, Gene; Linda Person and husband, James; and Vicky Tilghman and husband, Elton; brothers, Earl Hales and wife, Sarah, and Roy Hales and wife, Marie; along with sisters-in-law, Kathryn Hales, Linda Hales, and Brenda Hales; brother-in-law, Fred Goetze; and many nieces and nephews she loved dearly.
Viola’s faith, kindness, and devotion to others will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.
