Fairetta Viers

Fairetta Viers, a distinguished journeyman ironworker, licensed beautician, devoted gardener, and cherished matriarch, passed away on February 23, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Born on February 9, 1937, in Marion County, Indiana, Fairetta’s journey was marked by determination, skill, and a steadfast commitment to her family and community.

Fairetta was a trailblazer in her career. Completing a rigorous four-year apprenticeship, she earned her certification as a journeyman ironworker—a remarkable achievement at a time when minority women were seldom seen in the field. Her expertise and dedication set her apart as one of the few women, and indeed one of the few minorities, to reach such a professional certification. Continuing to evolve, Fairetta pursued cosmetology school and earned her license as a beautician, bringing warmth and care to her family through her skilled hairstyling for many years.

Education was a cornerstone in Fairetta’s life. Aside from her apprenticeship and cosmetology training, she earned her General Educational Development (GED) certificate, further illustrating her dedication to lifelong learning and self-improvement. Her proudest accomplishments included not only her professional certifications but also her generous spirit of service—she volunteered with the Visiting Nurse Service and was honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award in 2002 by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation.

Fairetta was a woman of strong will and a private nature, often mistaken for her “hard exterior” and forthright speech. Yet, those close to her knew a different side—a loving grandmother who imparted valuable lessons on independence and responsibility. She lovingly taught her grandchildren to maintain a clean home and look after themselves. Her granddaughter Fairnetta Harris fondly recalls how Fairetta, despite her hearing difficulties, stayed in regular contact by phone and imparted encouragement and wisdom. Named in her likeness, Fairnetta cherishes the guidance her grandmother provided, including encouraging her to obtain her very first job as a newspaper girl at the tender age of nine.

Fairetta’s passions extended beyond her career and family. She was an avid gardener, possessed of "growing hands" that nurtured a thriving peach tree, a lush grapevine, a large vegetable garden, and a vibrant flower bed adorned with rose bushes. Her green thumb reflected her love for nature and bringing life and beauty to her surroundings.

Throughout her life, Fairetta Viers was a devoted member of the Jehovah’s Witness community, living her faith faithfully until her passing.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Stephanie Viers; her grandchildren, Fairnetta Harris and Reginald Hill; and her great-granddaughter, Nautesae Stone. They, along with many others, will remember her strength, her tenderness beneath a tough exterior, and her enduring legacy of love, independence, and dedication.

Fairetta was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Ruth McCarley, and her brother, Rodney Clark.

Her life stands as a testament to perseverance, skill, and unwavering familial devotion. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched.