Mildred Ann Collins

Mildred Collins, an ornament to the community, died peacefully at her home, surrounded by her children on December 11, 2021 at the age of 98. She will be remembered as a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She remained active and independent until the very end.

Mildred was born in Colleton County, South Carolina, the daughter of W.D. and Lilly Breland Crosby. She attended Winthrop College and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. Following college, she became a teacher in Beaufort, South Carolina, and it was during this time that she met her future husband, Joseph John Collins. While Joe convinced her to move with him to Texas, she maintained a very close relationship with her family and passed to her children and grandchildren a deep love for both her family in South Carolina and the state itself.

A servant- leader, her actions spoke louder than her words. After moving to Texas, she and Joe became one of the founding members of St. Pius X parish in East Dallas and was instrumental in helping build and support Bishop Lynch High School. She participated in Diocesan-wide organizations including Theresians and Ladies of the Holy Sepulcher. Mildred was a supportive wife to Joe, helping him in the Life Insurance industry achieve the status of lifetime and qualifying member of the Million Dollar Round Table and he often referred to her as his "Million Dollar Wife." In addition, she helped found both Atlasta Book Club and St. Andrews Study Club. Notably, she volunteered for Meals on Wheels for almost 40 years and only recently retired from this service. Attending Mass daily, she remained an active and steadfast St. Pius X parishioner. She was loved by both clergy and parishioners, admired for her numerous gifts, quick wit and generosity of time and talent. She baked her signature rum cakes that over the years, generated more than $70,000 of donations in support of St. Pius X school.

A true Southern matriarch, her life is a testament to the idea that when you stay active and engaged in your community, you can enjoy health, independence, and fulfillment far into old age. Intellectually curious, and emotionally resilient, she remained relevant, and open to continued growth thriving in each new phase of life. She followed current events and latest trends and her sense of style was unparalleled. Her many talents included baking, sewing, reading, and gardening. She was a loyal friend who cherished her relationships and as an affectionate grandmother rarely missed a game, play, graduation or milestone event. She never lost a chance to remind others that they were special to her.

Mildred is preceded in death by husband Joe, and daughter, Ann Collins. She is survived by her children: Jane Collins (Michael McKenzie), Michael Collins (Becky), Marie McMurchie (Steve), Pat Shotland (Don), and Kathy Burns (Keith), as well as 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.