Marie Martin Collins, 85, of Largo, FL, went home to be with Jesus on Wednesday, June 19, 2013. Marie was born in Hollywood, FL, to Bill and Earle Martin. She graduated from Miami Edison High School in 1945. Soon after, she met a Marine, Don Collins, and they were married June 26, 1946, in Miami, Florida, a marriage that would last 67 years.
Marie was multi-talented, expressing her creativity and joy for life through her faith, music, and homemaking skills. She was awarded Queen of the Home, 1st runner up in Mrs. America, and Mrs. Congeniality. Marie taught 'Cake Decorating' and was known for her original, delicious desserts. At church, Marie was a soloist in the choir, using her gifted voice to sing songs of her Savior and God. Outside the home, Marie was secretary, extraordinaire! She held administrative secretarial positions with pastors in churches in Texas and Florida, and with Day of Discovery, a christian television broadcast. It was common to hear that Marie was the best secretary they ever had! In retirement, Marie put her creativity to use in making greeting cards called M-originals. In the Largo community, Marie is most known for her kindness and originality in creating personalized greeting cards that beautifully touched the heart. She considered this her ministry and developed many dear friendships through her card orders, even though during these years she faced significant physical challenges. Marie loved picnics, Florida beaches, beautiful flowers, watching Miss America, playing the piano and organ, making meals and celebrations special. She loved her dog, Pepper. Marie loved to laugh and enjoyed sharing life with her family whom she loved sacrificially. Marie showed a rare enthusiasm and joy for all she held dear in life and had an unusual desire to give to others.
Marie is survived by her husband, Don Collins of Largo, FL; son and daughter-in-law, Don & Desiree Collins of Tyler, TX; daughter and son-in-law, Melanie & Frank Hopkins of Miami, FL; five grandchildren and their spouses, Cameron (Beth), Nathan (Christy), Bill, Eric (Natalie), and Ryan; six great-grandchildren, Elisa, Ava, Noah, Micah, Kara, and Dakota.
A gathering of friends and family will be at 1 – 2 PM, followed by a memorial service celebrated at 2:00 PM on Sunday, June 23, 2013, in the chapel at First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks, 12685 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, with Rev. Durward Davis and Rev. Don Collins officiating. A private Interment will be at Sarasota National Cemetery on Monday.
Please sign the guestbook below.
David and I express our deepest sympathies at the loss of dear sweet Marie….she will forever be in my(Sylvia)heart….she was my other “Mom”. Marie was a wonderful, caring wife, mother, grandmother and friend to her family and friends. Her memory will always be with those whose lives she touched. She is singing her heart out in heaven…..for sure! She had a great voice and shared it many many times in church, at weddings and other events.
Marie….we will see each other one day again…with our Lord in Heaven.
May you always be in our hearts….we love you
Sylvia and David Hancock
Tom and I share in your loss and offer our deepest sympathy. Marie was always smiling and such a gracious lady…A true Proverbs 31 woman! She was always busy doing something. She was so creative and talented. I remember working with her years ago at the insurance company. She kept the office running smoothly. Whenever I will think of her, I will smile! And I am sure she is smiling now in the presence of our Lord. Our hearts and thoughts are with all of you during this difficult time. Sincerest sympathy, Tom & Esther
So saddened to read about Marie’s Homegoing in the Times this A.M. We are not saddened for her but for you and your family. It was a joy to have known her for the little time we did. She was so sweet and loving. May the good LORD give you the strength you need to face the rest of your lives here on earth without her presence. Love and prayers.
Aunt Marie will be missed. She was a beautiful and loving lady. Though we would have preferred to have her stay here with us, we know she is with the Lord, and she has no more pain and suffering. We will see her again. Uncle Don, we are praying for your peace and comfort. Love, Tom and Jan
Dear Melanie, Don & Family, Words cannot express our sorrow for your loss. I will never forget your Mom’s kindess and support and the very special cards I received. When I read them again yesterday the message remained true for today. She is and was a treasure for all time. Sincerely, Kathy, Neil and Maureen Esposito