Our vibrant, vivacious, valiant Violet Mies passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on April 25, 2022. A lymphoma survivor, she was ultimately overcome by pneumonia after enduring several months of treatments.

Violet was born in New York City on November 17, 1934 to Alice Smith and Walter Pollin. She and her sister Irene started dancing at an early age and were dancing professionally by the time they were in their early teens. At 16 years old, Violet was dancing for choreographer June Taylor in her Roxyettes Troup at the Roxy Theater and in their traveling shows. By 17, she joined the touring company of "Gentlemen Prefer Blonds." She performed in shows all over New York and beyond.

At 18 years old, Violet married her sweetheart Frederick Mies on the television show Bride & Groom. In 1963 they moved to Potomac, Maryland to raise their three children. They stayed in Potomac and remained happily married for the next 40 years until Fred's death in 2003. They were only three months shy of celebrating their fiftieth wedding anniversary. In 2010, Violet moved to Potomac Green in Ashburn, Virginia where she found a home and community with many wonderful caring friends.

Violet's love of dancing and sports continued throughout her entire life. She studied and participated in modern, jazz, tap, ballet, Russian and Jewish folk, country, line and her favorite, American style ball room dancing. In her 30's she took her love of dance to the roller rink and at 46 she earned a gold medal for roller skating dance. When the roller rink closed, she turned to ice skating. At 62, she became the oldest person to earn a gold medal for ice dancing. You could also find Violet on the tennis court, in the pool, at the gym, at the track, or in exercise classes. A few years ago, she even competed in the Senior Olympics. At 4'9" it was hard to believe she competed in the high jump!

Violet was a participant in life. She never turned down an invitation to an activity and never failed to dress for the occasion. Whether it be in spangles with matching high heels or in costume for a theme party she brought life to every occasion. Her sense of style and flair were legendary along with her love of chocolate!

Violet is loved and survived by her three children Judy Downs (Dan-deceased), Dawn Mies-Keyes (Tony), Eric Mies (Tiffany); five grandchildren Nicole Rudder (David), JT Keyes (Kristen), Kyle Rudder (Melissa), Tim Keyes, Acadia Keyes (Max); and three great grandchildren Valen Keyes, Quinn Rudder, Jude Rudder. She also leaves behind her sister Irene Adjan, sister-in-law Betty King, nephews, nieces, and many, many cherished friends.

She was loved by all who met her and as her dearest friend Joyce put so eloquently "She was beautiful inside and out. She was known for her wonderful spirit, love of dance, always making the most of everyday, and her friendship to everyone. She never had an unkind word. Violet was always a star and a jewel to behold!"

Violet embodies the quotation on her personal calling card: "She who leaves a trail of glitter will never be forgotten."

At Violet's request, a private family service will be held at a future date and in remembrance of her we will all be wearing violet on Mother's Day. If you wish to show your respects and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in Violet's name.