Obituary of Eileen Mary Collins

Eileen Mary Collins Passed peacefully away at her daughter’s home in Forest, Ontario on April 16, 2020, Eileen Mary Collins (nee Shea), aged 94. Predeceased by her husband Jim and daughter Daphne. Lovingly remembered by her children; Jeff (Rebeca) Collins, Paul Collins, Brenda (Bruce Deeks), Jane Williams (Ken), David Collins (Debbie), brother in law Ray Collins and daughter of her heart, Jackie Collins. She also leaves much loved grandchildren; Caitlin Collins (Michael), Ryan Collins (Jen), Katherine Rawlings (Tyler), Alex Williams (Bonnie), Emily Williams, Sean Williams, Brendon (Samantha), Katelynn (Colter) and great grandchildren; Keira, Jacqueline, and Liam. Eileen was born on August 13, 1925 in St. John’s, Newfoundland. A happy childhood in St. John’s evolved into high school war years with torpedoes, U-boats and rationing as the norm. Her first job was with the pre-confederation Income Tax Department. At the age of 19, she spent a week in New York as Miss Newfoundland describing it in three weekly articles published in the Daily News. She was also the leading lady in a docu-drama (“Island Story – The Frasers of Cabot Cove”) produced by Greenpark Productions of London, England. After her marriage to Jim, together they established several businesses including Air Transit Limited which provided essential air service to rural Newfoundland. Eileen acted as operations manager and radio operator-dispatcher from her kitchen with children underfoot. She was an active volunteer; 15 years with The Newfoundland Diabetic Association, establishing a permanent camp for diabetic children during her tenure. She also was a Brownie Leader and served on the board of her Condo Corporation. She moved to live with her daughter Jane in Forest in 2019, enjoying life to the fullest every day. At her request, her remains have been cremated and she will be laid to rest in her beloved Newfoundland at a later date. Online condolences may be left at www.forestfuneralhome.com Funeral arrangements entrusted to DENNING’S OF FOREST