<P> Viola `` Vy '' Smith - Wilkes , portrayed by Vernee Watson - Johnson , is Vivian 's oldest sister and Will 's loving mother . She is a stern , no - nonsense disciplinarian who is not afraid to challenge anyone who gets in her way . It was her idea that Will should go to Bel Air to get a good education and avoid a life of violence in their West Philadelphia neighborhood . Vy works as a supervisor at the post office . It was due to this she opposed the decision when Janice decides to marry Frank , a white man . Though by their next encounter she is more accepting . Vy eventually decides to marry Lisa Wilkes ' father after Will and Lisa call off their second wedding attempt . However , it is unknown whether or not they married , since in Vy 's next appearance , Mr. Wilkes is not seen or mentioned . Her maiden name and married name were previously the same , as Will 's father was named Lou Smith . </P>
<P> Viola `` Vy '' Smith - Wilkes , portrayed by Vernee Watson - Johnson , is Vivian 's oldest sister and Will 's loving mother . She is a stern , no - nonsense disciplinarian who is not afraid to challenge anyone who gets in her way . It was her idea that Will should go to Bel Air to get a good education and avoid a life of violence in their West Philadelphia neighborhood . Vy works as a supervisor at the post office . It was due to this she opposed the decision when Janice decides to marry Frank , a white man . Though by their next encounter she is more accepting . Vy eventually decides to marry Lisa Wilkes ' father after Will and Lisa call off their second wedding attempt . However , it is unknown whether or not they married , since in Vy 's next appearance , Mr. Wilkes is not seen or mentioned . Her maiden name and married name were previously the same , as Will 's father was named Lou Smith . </P>
who played will smith 's mom in fresh prince
who played will smith 's mom in fresh prince
Vernee Watson - Johnson
Vernee Watson - Johnson