Obituary of Elizabeth Ann Collins

Age 84, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 17, 2018 at St. Joseph's Hospital SNF. Betty was born in Rochester NY, a daughter of Raymond H. and Alphonsine (Jacques) Warren. She is predeceased by her husband David M. Collins. Betty is survived by her children and their families: Martha Collins Roberts and husband Robert M., of Elmira, with their children, Maureen (Robert) Cole and Michael; Robert S. Collins and wife Janis, of Horseheads, with their son Shawn; David R. Collins of Elmira; Sally A. Collins of Elmira Heights; Thomas A. Collins and wife Sarah, of Pittsford NY, with their children, Katherine, Molly and John; Matthew W. Collins of Elmira; Mary E. Collins of Elmira; great grandchildren, David and Amber Cole, Harrison Roberts. Also surviving are step-sisters, Mary Jackson of Fishkill NY, Joanne (Claude) Smoyer of Fairport NY; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Patricia Warren of Massachusetts, Dr. Robert and Polly Hayes of Avon NY, Dr. Bernard and Patricia Collins of Binghamton, Sally Collins of North Hampton MA; along with several nieces and nephews. Betty was a creative and inspired artist whose talents extended through painting, needlepoint, cross stitching, quilting, sewing and rug hooking. She had a talent to make the ordinary – extraordinary. Betty was a member of the Rug Hooking Guild and has had some of her works displayed at the Chemung County Historical Society. She was a dedicated care giver and a wonderful mother to her seven children. Betty found such joy in her grandchildren and great grandchildren. By the graces of St. Patrick (and on his feast day), David and Betty were reunited once again. Theirs is a legendary love story. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water Street, Elmira, on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A prayer service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at 9:45 a.m., followed by a 10:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary's Church, 224 Franklin Street, Elmira. Interment, with committal prayers will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. The Collins family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the St. Joseph's Hospital 5thfloor skilled nursing staff for the wonderful care they provided to Betty for the last five years. Those wishing may remember Betty with a donation to either, the Chemung County Humane Society and SPCA, 2435 St. Rt. 352, Elmira NY 14903 or the National Stroke Association, 9707 East Easter Lane, Suite B, Centennial CO 80112.