Violet Tina Black

Violet Tina Black, age 22, returned to her Heavenly home on Monday, October 27, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at home. 

She was born on June 13, 2003, in Hildale, Utah, to Betty (Jessop) Black and Paul Raymond Black, and was raised in Colorado City, Arizona. 

Though carried full-term, Violet weighed just three and a half pounds at birth. Complications before birth led to severe malnutrition, and she spent her first six weeks in the NICU at Dixie Regional Hospital. Her heart and lungs were strong, but her stomach never worked properly. She faced lifelong feeding challenges with courage and quiet strength. 

In November 2012, when her intestines twisted, Violet was life-flighted to Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Her small intestines were removed, leaving her unable to eat or drink. A central line was placed, and she was sustained by TPN for the rest of her life. The following year, she underwent surgery for a colostomy. Over time, the TPN caused liver disease, bringing new complications that ultimately led to her passing. 

Despite her many challenges, Violet’s spirit was bright, joyful, and unforgettable. 

She found joy in the simplest things — tiny sounds that made her laugh: the click of her father’s pen, a cup bouncing off the counter, or the slurp of milk from a spoon. Her giggles were so contagious. 

Her favorite outings were quiet car rides to visit the animals at the local zoo. Horses made her light up, but it was always the cows that she loved the most. We would slide open the van door so she could see them up close. 

Violet adored her brothers and sisters, and she especially loved small children. Her older sisters played the piano for her daily, and on special days, Violet would “play” the keys in her own unique way. She shared a special bond with her father, saving her tongue pops mostly for him. 

Her life was lovingly centered around her mother, Betty; her sisters, Lorraine and Zephyr; and her younger brother, Eddie, along with family that visited and many dedicated caregivers who helped through the years. 

Though her body was small and fragile, her love was enormous. She adored music and cherished the moments when family would gather around her bedside to sing to her. She loved without reservation, and each person she encountered felt seen, welcomed, and treasured. 

Violet is survived by her parents, Paul and Betty Black; her eight siblings — Jim, Lorraine, Zach, Melvin (and his wife, Milk, and their daughter, Marina), Zephyr, Fred, Richard, and Eddie — and her grandmother, Noreen Jessop; and a large extended family and many dear friends who will forever carry her laughter in their hearts.

 She will be truly and deeply missed. 

SERVICES A viewing will be held on Thursday, October 6, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hughes Mortuary, 1038 E. 700 S., St. George, Utah 84790 Phone: 435-674-5000. 

Donations and floral arrangements may be sent to: Hughes Mortuary 1038 E. 700 S., St. George, Utah 84790