Thelma Mae Collins

1918 - 2010

Thelma Mae Collins October 2, 1918 - November 10, 2010 Thelma Mae Collins, "Grandma Mae", 92, our beloved Mother, Sister, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, and Caretaker to all, has moved to Heaven to join her family. She is survived by daughter, Francis Holt, son-in-law John Holt; brother, Gene Todd; and too many grandchildren and great grandchildren to list. Thelma was born in Fulton County Camp, Arkansas. She came to Kern County in 1934 and married Fred Collins on August 6, 1936. "Fred and Mae", as they were known to others, had two beautiful girls, Vera and Francis. Fred and Mae were very successful business owners in Bakersfield. They owned "Fred and Mae's Cafe" on Edison Hwy., several grocery stores, and a cafe they co-owned with brother, Gene Todd. Mae was very known for her kindness and generosity for others. She always made sure no one went hungry. She truly was that "One in a Million"! She retired in the early 1970's and lost her husband suddenly. She continued to care for her elderly parents until they passed. She lived next door to her daughter Vera, and cared for her through her nine year struggle with Alzeimhers. Vera passed in 2007, and Mae moved to Missouri to live with her brother Gene in 2008. He would drive her to visit every year, and just last spring she was still dancing and enjoying life. She became suddenly sick with cancer and returned to Phoenix to be cared for by her daughter Francis and son-in-law John Holt. God took her gracefully within 3 weeks of being diagnosed. She is so loved, and will be always be remembered for her true unconditional love and devotion to her family and friends. She also was a dedicated member of Church Of Christ Riverview. Viewing will be Thursday, Nov. 18th, from 3-8 p.m., at Hillcrest Mortuary, with a Graveside service on Friday, Nov. 19th, at noon, also at Hillcrest. After services all family and friends are invited to join us at the Langston home, call 477-9944 for directions. www.bakersfield.com/obits