Viola Marcelle Hudgins Clay , affectionately known as "Vi Holly," passed away peacefully on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 11:11 a.m. She was born on September 23, 1951, in Newport News, Virginia, to the late Della Dolores Seawright Hudgins and Thomas Hudgins, III.  One of only two daughters, Viola's life was marked by intellect, curiosity, resilience, and a deep love for people.

Viola was born in Newport News, Va., raised in New Haven, CT, and later moved to Washington, D.C., where she attended the University of the District of Columbia and earned her bachelor's degree. She taught school in Newport News and, most notably, she worked for Mayor Marion Barry during his first term as Mayor of Washington, D.C., contributing her administrative expertise and dedication to civic life.  Viola retired from General Dynamics in 2010.  She was baptized at Emmanuel Baptist Church, which is our family church.

Well-traveled and adventurous, Viola embraced the world with enthusiasm. She hiked through the Alaskan mountains, traveled to Greece, and explored many places, always eager to experience culture, history, and life beyond boundaries. She believed deeply in exposure, education, and the importance of broadening one's worldview.

Family was central to Viola's life. She was a devoted mother to her beloved daughter, Delcine Chevette Hudgins, who preceded her in death, and a proud grandmother to Raymond Eugene Hudgins, whom she cherished deeply. Viola was married three times, and in her final and enduring union, she found companionship and care with her husband, Kevin Clay, with whom she spent her later years in Petersburg, Virginia.

Viola was a woman who loved life fully and encouraged others to do the same. She was known for her unwavering support, always urging those she loved to move forward, dream boldly, and believe in themselves. Education, culture, and refinement mattered greatly to her—Sunday mornings in her home were devoted to classical music, newspapers, chess, and quiet reflection, instilling curiosity and discipline in the children she helped raise.

To her nieces and nephews, Viola was more than an aunt—she was a second mother, a teacher, and a cultural guide. She helped raise her niece and nephews, opening her home and heart, ensuring family stayed together, and offering experiences that shaped their lives forever.

Viola lived a full and complex life, marked by both triumphs and challenges, yet at her core she was a good and generous woman whose heart was always oriented toward love. Her strength, encouragement, and presence will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her loving husband, Kevin Clay; her grandson, Raymond Eugene Hudgins; her sister, Billie Jo Flynn; her nephews, Miles, Karim, and Shakir; her niece, Rashida; as well as a host of grand-nieces, grand-nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends, including the Seawright and Hudgins families.

Viola Marcelle Hudgins Clay leaves behind a legacy of love, culture, encouragement, and the enduring belief that life—despite its struggles—is meant to be lived fully.

A memorial service will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 23, 2026 at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th, Newport News, VA. 23607.