Vivian Butts Clements

Vivian B Clements, age 93, passed unexpectedly at home on March 26, 2023. She was born August 18, 1929, in Norfolk, VA, the daughter of Walter E Butts and Amy Riddick Butts. Vivian graduated from Booker T Washington High School in January 1946. She graduated from Virginia State University and began her teaching career in 1950. The same year Vivian married her college sweetheart, William J Clements (deceased). They celebrated 56 years of marriage until his death in 2006. In May,1979 Vivian received her Master of Education Degree from Old Dominion University. Actively promoting her love of Christ, Vivian continually shared her beliefs and advice with everyone she met. She loved the Lord and served Him faithfully in each of the following churches: Mount Olive Baptist Church, Norfolk; Fairwood Agape Baptist Church, and Collinwood Agape Baptist Church. At Mount Olive Baptist Church, Vivian was a Missionary, Deaconess, Sunday School Teacher, Treasurer and was a member of the Board of Trustees. In 2010, Vivian became a member of the former Fairwood Agape Baptist Church now Collinwood Agape Baptist Church. She worked diligently as a member of the Finance Committee and was Chairman of the Trustee Board until 2022. She continue to serve on the Trustee Board until her death. Vivian was a member of the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority. The first African American Greek-lettered business sorority established by African American business women. There are now more than 100 chapters with membership numbering more than 1300 in 85 cities and the US Virgin Island. Vivian was active in her community and was Treasurer of the Cavalier Manor Civic League. This organization tirelessly participates in the safety and security of its residents and conducts activities to support the youth and food give away programs. The Red Hat Society held a special place in Vivian’s heart. She loved getting together with sister Hatters and sharing in love, support, and laughter. Vivian lived a beautiful life and made a positive impression on everyone she met. She had a way of correcting or advising you with a laugh or a smile. Everyone knew she wanted things done correctly and would freely offer recommendations that proved to be helpful. She enjoyed shopping and long telephone conversations. She cherished her friends and would keep in touch through cards or phone calls. She and her daughter were truly ride or die partners and did everything together. In addition to her parents, Vivian was predeceased by her husband, William J Clements, and her sister Ervin B. Edney. She is survived by her daughter, Debra Clements; her nephews, Joseph P. Edney, Jr. (Margaret), Gorge Halstead (Debbie), and her niece, Beatrice Woods. She loved her cousins Gene, Bobby, Maurice Wilson, and Andrea Edwards. Also cherishing her memory are great nephews, great nieces and other relatives and friends. Vivian held a special place in her heart for her cousin Ester, Alma and Felicia Felton, the Thorpe and Parson families.