Viola M. May

Viola M. May, 87, of Sedalia, MO, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 13, 2025, at her home. She was born on November 13, 1937, in Pettis County, MO, the daughter of John Ditzfeld and Erma (McDowell) Ditzfeld, who preceded her in death.

On December 31, 1955, in Sedalia, she was united in marriage to James L. May, who preceded her in death on August 11, 2016.

Viola was a devoted member of First United Methodist Church Celebration Center in Sedalia. She dedicated most of her life to retail sales, beginning at the Jupiter Department Store and later working for K-Mart in Sedalia, where she retired in 2008 after more than 40 years of loyal service.

Viola had a warm, adventurous spirit and a smile that naturally drew people to her. She loved tending her flower gardens, spending time with her grandchildren and family, and making lasting memories with those she loved most. She enjoyed the thrill of visiting casinos and was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan - never missing a game if she could help it. Her favorite player was Travis Kelce, and she loved cheering on her Chiefs every season.

Family was the center of Viola's world. She always made sure her children were well cared for and knew how deeply they were loved. She was also a devoted caregiver to her siblings, always looking out for their well-being. Viola had a heart for helping others and made sure that her family never had to worry - she was their steady source of comfort, strength, and love.

Viola is survived by her children, Deanne May and Tom May (Robin); two grandchildren, Madison Wolf (Kyle) and Matthew May (Rachel); a great-granddaughter, Luka June; two sisters, Norma Johnson of Sedalia and Bonnie Hrdlicka (Bob) of Independence, MO; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two infant children, Timothy and Tina May; five brothers, George Ditzfeld, John Ditzfeld Jr., Victor Ditzfeld, Harry Dietzfeld, and Bobbie Ditzfeld; and four sisters, Bernice Ash, Ruth Bass Soptic, Dora Parker, and Carolyn Woods.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Candace Fowler officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Sedalia, MO.

Pallbearers will be announced.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cancer Perks in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel.