Edna Yvonne Collins, left this world Sunday, February 18, 2024, in Waycross.
A daughter of Alton James Howell and Vera Mae Fowler Howell, she was born March 19, 1936, in Blackshear. She touched the lives of many with her warmth, generosity and unwavering love.
She was not only an avid cook but a skilled canner of vegetables, a talent she cultivated from her early years. She devoted her life to her family, embodying the essence of a devoted mother who selflessly dedicated herself to raising her children and supporting her grandchildren. Her heart knew no bounds, as she opened her home to the Ware County Family Foster Service for many years, providing love and care to foster children.
Known for her sacrificial spirit, she was willing to go without to ensure her children had everything they needed. Her life was a testament to kindness and compassion, always giving without complaint. A woman of faith, she dedicated her life to God and was a cherished member of Truth Tabernacle United Pentecostal Church in Blackshear.
She triumphed over adversity, bravely defeating lung cancer and demonstrated resilience throughout her life. Witnessing the evolution of technology from horse-drawn carriages to mobile phones and tablets, she embraced change, even adopting computers to connect with loved ones through email and social media. Her enthusiasm for technology extended to playing games on her tablet, particularly enjoying Candy Crush and tap by number paint.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James Alton Howell and Vera Mae Fowler Howell; her son Charles Thomas Collins Jr. and siblings James Howell (Frankie), Robert Howell (Dorothy) and Betty Houston (Florian).
Survivors include her loving children, Dawn Johnston (Robert), Bonnie Lackey (Larry), Jonathan Collins and Keith Collins (Aaron); her cherished grandchildren who continue her legacy, Jason Lee, Robert “Bubba” Johnston, Lacie Johnston, Jennifer Steedley (Randy), Loran McDaniel (Melissa), Jenni Conley (JW), Summer Delaney (Robert), Jessica Lacy Howell, Larry Lackey Jr., April Collins McQuaig (Stephen), Shayne Collins, Christopher “Chad” Collins (Patricia “Patty”) and Kristin Collins; her great-grandchildren will carry forward her love and spirit, including Cameron Lee, Sebastian Lee (Megan), Paisley Johnston, Hannah Tatum, Korbin Drudge, Sage Steedley, Reese Steedley, Jack Steedley, Daley McDaniel, Rylee McDaniel, Trinity Conley, Evie Conley, Copeland Delaney, Dylan Howell, Chloe Howell, Zoe Minger, Zack McQuaig, Lorraine Collins, Kaden Collins, Bentley Barnhill and Liliauna Collins; her sister, Iris Perkinson and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21, at the funeral home.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 22, from the chapel of Miles-Odum Funeral Home.
Interment will follow in the Ben James Cemetery near Blackshear.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Edna Y Collins to the Satilla Hospice, 808 Evergreen Way, Waycross, Georgia 31501 or to the Alzheimer's Association at www.act.alz.org or the American Cancer Society at www.donate.cancer.org.
“She will be remembered for her boundless love, unwavering faith, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and generosity. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” said her family.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.milesodumfuneralhome.com
Miles-Odum Funeral Home of Waycross is in charge of arrangements.
