Obituary of Stella A. Collins

Stella Ann Collins Stella passed on October 14, 2020, at the age of 96. She was preceded in death by John, her beloved husband of 69 years, and her daughter Patricia. She was the dear mother of Margaret (Walter) Oxley and John Jr. (Lynn) Collins, grandmother of Steven (Lisa Lau) Collins, John III (Kristin Essary) Collins, David (Annie Hopfensperger) Collins, and Patrick (Clair Leighton) Collins, and great-grandmother of eight lovely children. Her family, who she cherished, will miss her dearly. Stella was loved and respected by all who knew her. She had a friendly, caring, cheerful manner that drew people to seek her friendship and company. Stella read or listened to The Daily Word every day. The reading for Tuesday, October 13, 2020, the last Daily Word she heard, spoke directly to Stellas approach to life: "Centered in love, I create an environment of kindness, empathy, and respect that spreads outward. This ripple effect may motivate others to think and act from a place of kindness and love within themselves. I begin with a smile, recalling times when I was touched by the simple smile of another." Stella lived by those sentiments. Stella gave to her community in many different service projects such as volunteering for years at the local Well Baby clinic, helping with girl scouts and boy scouts, as well as various school and church activities. She volunteered for many years at the Southfield Public Library where her cheerful, efficient demeanor was greatly appreciated. Stella loved art and had an exceptional talent for painting. For many years she created beautiful works of painted china. She then turned her talent to oil painting. Over the next decades she created for her family and friends a large, rich collection of landscapes and paintings of country buildings. Many of her works were displayed in shows throughout the Detroit Metropolitan area. Stella and John moved to Trowbridge, a senior living facility, in May 2012. Stella was an active participant in many of the activities at Trowbridge: current events gatherings, bingo, multiple solitaire, horse racing, and exercise classes to name a few. For the last several months, gathering with the "Golden Girls" at 2:00 in the afternoon was a highlight of her day. Stella loved music, a love that she passed on to her children. Stella attended concerts and music performances her entire life. At Trowbridge she attended every concert or musical program offered. And she sang in the Trowbridge choral group, a special activity, right up until shortly before her passing. Stella was an active, giving woman with many talents and pursuits. But the most important thing in her life was her family. She was proud of her family and loved being "Mom", "Grandma", "Great Grandma", and "Aunt Stella". She especially relished the time she spent with her children and grandchildren. She played an important part in each of their lives and they are all richer because of that fact. There will be a small family gathering next summer to celebrate Stellas life. Contributions may be made in Stellas honor to Special Olympics Michigan in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, or the Alzheimers Association.