Gail Collins

Gail L. Collins, nee Leach, 70, of Belleville IL, born Feb 6, 1940 in Gloversville, NY died Thursday, Jan 6, 2011 at her residence after a courageous, year long battle with cancer. Gail is a 1957 graduate of Gloversville High School. Gail was preceded in death by her parents John and Evelyn (Warner) Leach of Gloversville, NY. She is survived by her husband of 33 years retired Chief Master Sergeant Harold (Ray) Collins, her three children, Teri Whitfield of Cahokia IL; Kimberly (John) Grosse of Orlando FL; TSgt Jon Eric (Ruth) Hoagboon of Papillion NE; a sister, Toni Bailey of Ft Worth TX; one niece, Melinda Gayle Bailey also of Ft Worth; eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and a dear cousin, Marilyn (Charles) Farrant of Alamogordo NM. Three step-daughters: Carolyn Collins of Alexandria VA; Debra Collins of Alexandria VA; Kelly Collins of London England; seven step-grandchildren and a host of friends. Gail was a former federal civil service employee and a past president of Federally Employed Women (FEW). She was the owner of the popular metaphysical gift shop, Bear Book & Candle, located at 1111 West Main in Belleville where she devoted her time to pleasing her many loyal customers. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to BJC Siteman Cancer Center (gynecology dept), St Louis MO or BJC Supportive/Hospice Care also St Louis. Her remains will be cremated at her request. Services will be privately held.