Louise Collins completed her earthly journey on January 4, 2024, where she wanted to be, in the comfort of her home. She is survived by her three children, Edward (Lorelei), Lara (David), and Rebecca; grandchildren, Sinon, Fiona, Blythe, Damien, Caroline, and Henry; brother, Steve (Karen); and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Louise was preceded in death by her husband, Jim, of 57 years, her parents, Arnold and Beatrice, and her brother Garry.

Louise was raised in East Cleveland with her two younger brothers. Her childhood was filled with extended family and many gatherings of cousins, grandparents, and aunts and uncles. Louise loved to sing and was involved in her church and school choirs. As a senior, she was a National Merit Scholar and spent one year at Lindenwood College in St. Louis. 

During her senior year, Louise met and fell in love with Jim in East Cleveland, and they married in the summer of 1966. Their first date was her senior prom, and they saved many mementos of their courtship and early married life, including countless letters, receipts, ticket stubs, and even a straw wrapper. They started their family in the Cleveland area, had a short but memorable stay in Cincinnati, and finally settled in the Detroit area during the summer of 1977. 

Louise was determined to complete her education and received her associate degree from Lakeland Community College while caring for her young children. She continued her education in Cincinnati and Michigan, earning her Bachelor’s Degree from Oakland University and her Juris Doctor Degree from Wayne State University. Louise worked as an attorney for banks and specialized in compliance. She loved an intellectual challenge and could not be beat at Scrabble or Jeopardy.

Louise had many interests and enjoyed playing bridge with friends, singing in choirs, and being a member of book clubs and a knitting club. Louise was a prolific fiber artist, knitting and crocheting special blankets for babies, weddings, and other occasions. She was a loyal friend who kept in touch with friends throughout all of her life stages. Her most cherished friendships were with her cousin Mark, her ever-faithful friend Kay, and her loyal high school friends Susie and Diane. Louise encouraged strength and education for all women and shared her knowledge and experiences to mentor others. She strongly advocated for women’s rights and their right to reproductive freedom. 

Despite working and attending school, Louise supported her children in their schooling and interests. She spent hours reading school papers, watching baseball games, and leading Girl Scout troops. Her children were always on her mind; she collected and saved articles and comics that her children would enjoy. Louise was a lover and supporter of the arts and shared this passion by taking her family to the symphony, musicals, art exhibits, and even rock concerts. She loved to share her skills and interests with others. 

To her great joy, Louise became an adored grandmother. She always thought of her grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them swimming, playing games, baking, and sharing her love of nature. She was notorious for finding things in her home or out shopping to give to one of her grandchildren. She was sure to tell them she loved them with every interaction.

Those who stayed close to her over the last few years saw her grow frustrated that her mind and body could not keep up with her desires. She lost many skills that allowed her to pursue her interests but continued in her desire to keep busy. 

Louise’s spirit and legacy live on through her family, friends, and the many people she has touched on Earth. In her honor, please read a book, reach out to an old friend, pursue an interest, and spend time with family and friends. Louise will be missed by many. Take comfort in her being with Jim and others who have gone before her. 

A memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, April 6th, at 11:30 a.m. with in state beginning at 11:00 a.m. The Mass will be livestreamed at the following link: Memorial Mass - Mrs. Louise Collins

St. Fabian Catholic Church, 32200 W. Twelve Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334, 248-553-4610

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the Kurt and Peter Foundation at How To Help Us - Website (kurtpeterfoundation.org), a cause close to Louise’s heart, or Henry Ford Hospice at https://www.henryford.com/development. Although our hospice journey was much shorter than initially anticipated, Henry Ford Hospice was invaluable in supporting both Louise and her children through this journey.