Brenda K. Collins


Brenda K. Collins, 59, of Olivet, passed away on Monday, December 17, 2018 at her home surrounded by her family following a long illness. Brenda was born on May 30, 1959 in Chariton, Iowa to Leland and Geneva (Allen) Long. She graduated from Olivet High School in 1977. On December 1, 1979 she married John M. Collins at the Olivet Congregational Church.

Brenda was a homemaker staying home to raise her family. She also worked for a short time at the McCamly Plaza in Battle Creek, and two gas stations in Olivet. Recently she had been working as a Para-Pro for Olivet Schools. Brenda was a member of the Ainger Bible Church. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, collecting snowmen, and shopping. Brenda especially enjoyed spending time with her family. She will be remembered for her kindness and having an open home to anyone in need in the Olivet area.

She is survived by her husband, John of Olivet; children, Parker (Christy) Collins of Colorado, Garrett (Kelly) Collins of Olivet, Taylor (Joel Flagg) Collins of Marshall, and Maddy (Sam Roe) Collins of Olivet; five grandchildren, Noah, Ainsley, Abel, Emelia, and Opal; siblings, Jeanne (Russ) Johnson of Norwalk, Iowa, Linda Henry of Charlotte, Lee (Debi) Long of South Carolina, Ken (Janet) Long, and Brian (Connie) Long all of Iowa; and several nieces and nephews.  

She was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, Donnie Long and Connie Ansley.

Family gathered with friends on Friday, December 21, 2018, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Marshall Chapel of the Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. A memorial service celebrating her life will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 22, 2018 at the Marshall Chapel of the Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, with Pastor Scott Brood officiating.  

Family will gather with friends following the services in the Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services Marshall Reception Hall.  Memorial contributions are requested to Oaklawn Hospice.  

Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services.  Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at kempffuneralhome.com.