Viola M. Sargent, age 98, of Lena, IL passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023 at Graceland Manor.  She was born at home in rural Lena, IL April 3, 1924 to Homer and Grace (Zipse) Stewart.

Viola was a 1941 graduate of Winslow High School. After graduation, she worked at the Winslow Bank and Burgess Battery.   Viola was united in marriage to Wendell L. Sargent on Feb. 1, 1946 and they farmed together until Wendell's passing in 1996.  For many years the couple enjoyed their winters in Green Valley, AZ.

Viola attended Lena United Methodist Church, active in bible study and the women's sewing group. She was a member of the Stephenson County Home Extension for fifty years.  She volunteered at the Lena Historical Society, Lena Elementary after school homework program and was an election poll worker for many years.

Viola was a farm wife, she liked farm work, especially harvest time and was driving tractor up until age 85.  She enjoyed country living, vegetable and flower gardening, baking cookies, playing cards, antiquing, sewing and needle work, playing piano, word puzzles, and watching her favorite tv show Wheel of Fortune.  She loved walking the road and trails at Lake-Le-Aqua-Na for many years and most of all enjoyed visits from family and friends.

Viola is survived by her children; Dale (Sandy) Sargent of Lena, Carol Sargent of Newcastle, WA and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Viola was preceded in death by her parents, husband Wendell, and sons Duane and Allen; brothers and sisters-in-law Vernon (June) Stewart of Lena, IL and Alden (Elizabeth) Stewart of California.

The Sargent Family would like to extend to the staff of Graceland Manor, Monroe, WI and SSM Monroe Hospice a heartfelt thank you for the wonderful loving care provided.

A private family service will be held Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at Bartell-Leamon Funeral Home in Warren, IL officiated by Pastor Keri Rainsberger.  Burial will take place at Elmwood Cemetery, Warren, IL.

A memorial fund has been established for SSM Health at Home-Monroe Hospice.