Yolanda S. Wright

"It is not how a woman dies, but rather how that woman lived, and the legacy for which she will be remembered." We, therefore, celebrate the life and legacy of a Woman of courage, a sister, an aunt, a friend, a mentor, a compassionate and warm-hearted woman; and an advocate for youth and the underrepresented within the social services network who positively touched thousands of youth and families from all walks of life.

Yolanda Shynell Collins, a young and vibrant 46 year old, was born on June 3, 1972 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Jimmie Lane Collins and Lou Vata Merriweather Collins. Yolanda entered into Eternal Life on June 8, 2018 at IUPUI Medical Center, Indianapolis. Battling breast cancer for seven years with courage, Yolanda's disposition embraced: BUT GOD! He gave me a story to tell in hopes of giving others HOPE in the midst of their challenges, whatever they be". (May 2018)

Reared with strong Christian values, Yolanda accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at a very early age. Spiritually, Yolanda sought a deeper spiritual walk with the Lord in Savior Jesus Christ, thus at an early age affiliating with Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church currently under the leadership of Pastor LeRoy Wadlington. She was an active member, widely embracing many auxiliaries and organizations, especially those youth oriented programs.

She was the oldest of three children born to parents, Jimmy and Lou Vata. She leaves to cherish her memories a large cadre of relatives and friends, including her brothers, Jimmy Lamont Collins (Monika) and Michael Collins (Tina), both of Indianapolis. She also leaves a significant legacy consisting of aunts and uncles, and more than 150 beloved close relatives (cousins) that span across four generations. Yolanda also leaves to cherish her memories members of The Indianapolis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Incorporated, especially member Ms. Angie Hood. Additionally, she leaves fondest memories of cousins who were more akin as sisters and caretakers, Ms. Agnes Staten and Robin Staten of Indianapolis.

Yolanda was educated in the Indianapolis Public School System. She was awarded the Bachelor of Science in Political Science/Legal Administration from Ball State University, she continued her studies at IUPUI, Indiana University and graduated in 2014 with the Masters of Science in Social Work, while in the midst of battling cancer. As a community servant, Yolanda was a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and Indianapolis Alumnae Chapter.

Professionally, Yolanda served as a social worker with the Indiana Children Bureau and the affiliates until experiencing health challenges. Her work as a public servant proved impactful with communities throughout the State of Indiana.

The world has lost a great woman of God and dedicated public servant. Her presence will be missed. We must hold firm to and cherish the time in which she spent with her family, colleagues, and friends.