Viola Wills (born Viola Mae Wilkerson), the American disco and pop singer has died after a long battle with cancer.
She was best known for her disco cover version of "Gonna Get Along Without You Now". Other hits included further covers of the songs, "Both Sides Now" and "If You Could Read My Mind".
Wills was married and the mother of six children when, in 1965, she was discovered by Barry White who signed her to Bronco Records and rechristened her with the shorter stage surname of Wills.
She started her career at the Los Angeles Conservatory of Music and, over the following years, in addition to working with White, also performed with Joe Cocker, Smokey Robinson and many other established recording artists of the era.
Viola always made time for her fans, many of them who became good friends with her.
Viola gave so much to this life, and asked for so little in return.
Viola leaves behind six children - Vincent, Christopher, Regina, La Donna, David and Rejal, 21 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Viola was just 69 years old.
Viola's favourite saying to her family was always "Aim for the sky and always dare to dream"
On Viola's behalf her family wish a special heartfelt thanks to all of Vi's fans over the years, whom, Vi always said, allowed her dreams to come true.
God Bless Viola, her family and friends around the world.
Viola is a Star amongst Stars.
