Vivian Teat

Vivian Teat passed away on August 19, 2023, at her home in Leavenworth, Kansas at the age of 63. 

Oopie or Viv, as she was affectionately known by her friends and family, was born on August 2, 1960, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Joe Louis and Bonnie D. Nash (Teat).  Oopie grew up with her older brother, Marcus, whom she had a playful relationship with, and he would prove to be her brotherly protector. She later attended Madison High School, graduating in 1978.  Having shown tremendous prowess in the arts she attended Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas.  Her passion for the arts led to a major in Art.  While at Ottawa she met Lee Roy Pitts, II, whom she later married and to this union were born Leah Sheree Coney (Pitts) and Lee Roy Pitts, III.  Vivian was active at Third Street Church of God in children’s ministry and choir.  She enjoyed crafting, drawing, and thrift shopping and she would use these skills to help her family and others.  She worked at Hillview Christian Children’s Center as a childhood educator and later worked as an artist for a photography company.  Vivian’s skill and work ethic as an artist enabled her to outwork the other artists while also exhibiting her tremendous artistic skill.  Vivian later pursued an associate degree in early childhood education.

Oopie had a tremendous dedication to family.  She had a wonderful relationship and dedication to her kids and grandkids.  She was also the caretaker for all the children in the family from birth until school age.  Selflessly giving of her time and passion for family.  She was known as the party planner, throwing lavish parties with decorations as well as ornament parties.  She also organized scavenger hunts for family between the homes of family around the city.  Oopie would bring a level of organization to family and church events and would elevate the fellowship of the group.

Vivian is survived by her daughter, Leah Sheree Coney (Theo Coney) of Leavenworth, Kansas; her son Lee Roy Pitts III (Lakeita Pitts) of Pearl, Mississippi; her grandchildren Jordan Pitts, Ava and Aidan Coney, Jayden and Jaxson Pitts; and a host of other relatives and friends.

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