October 4, 1931-July 14, 2018
Beverly Collingwood passed away peacefully on July 14, 2018 surrounded by her loving children. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, C. Gilbert Collingwood. Beverly is survived by her 3 children- Melinda Downes of Nokomis, Bonnie Volney (husband Peter Bertinelli) of Port Charlotte, and Gordon Parry of Boston. She had 6 wonderful grandchildren: Kelly Downes Comer, Kate Downes Richardson, Casey Downes Ware, Shane Volney, Myka Volney Meier, and Bron Volney, as well as 8 great-grandchildren. She loved her family with all her heart.
Bev was born in Massachusetts and moved to Florida in 1976, residing in Sarasota and for the past 5 years Port Charlotte. Bev was an astute businesswoman who successfully managed construction, real estate and pool construction businesses. She loved raising orchids, cooking, dancing and traveling the world: for many years she belonged to the Bird Key Yacht Club. Her greatest passion in life was sailing. The happiest years of her life were the time she and Gil spent traveling all over the Caribbean in their vessel Moondancer. Beverly had a talent for writing and sent amazing travelogues to friends and family describing her adventures.
Bev was adventurous, funny, classy, assertive and larger than life in so many ways. At the age of 80 she was still rollerblading and enjoying every minute of it. She leaves a void in the lives of her family that can never be filled. They take solace in the belief she is now at peace and happy sailing with Gil on the other side of the horizon.
In keeping with Bev’s wishes a private family service and burial at sea will take place at a later date. Donations in her name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, at 800-272-3900. Memories of Bev and messages to the family can be posted at www.NationalCremation.com.
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