Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1925
DIED
2024
FUNERAL HOME
Hattie Ruth Collins Obituary
Hattie Ruth Ward Collins age 98 of Galax, Virginia passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2024 in the Commonwealth Senior Living in Hillsville, Virginia.
Mrs. Collins was born in Galax, Virginia on December 14, 1925 to Joseph Kenley and Virginia Caroline Rosamond Higgins Ward. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Charles Pierce Collins and son Dennis Mahlon Collins.
She was recognized as a Rosie the Riveter for her work in Detroit at Republic Aircraft during WWII. She was a graduate of National Business College and worked at Oakland Elementary School as secretary/bookkeeper for 19 years. She was a devoted member of Oakland UMC serving as church secretary and member of the UMW. She volunteered with the Backpack Buddies Program. She also enjoyed apple butter making with the church. In her 90’s she assisted the FBI in the apprehension and conviction of criminals preying on the elderly.
She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law Clysta Collins Walters of Orange, Virginia; Kali Collins and Michael Pafford of Woodlawn, Virginia; Bonese Harris and Michael of Hiwassee, Virginia; sons and daughters-in-law Charles P. Collins II and Annette of Galax, Virginia; Terry Collins and Barbara of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; special friends Betty Jewel and W.A. Patton, Jr.; Pauline Robinson; Harold and Linda Cox.
The funeral service will be held Monday at 1:00 PM at the Oakland United Methodist Church with the Rev. Richard Gregory officiating. Burial will follow in the Oakland Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Vaughan-Guynn Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family respectfully request donations be made to either the Oakland United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund or the Alzheimer’s Association.
The family would like to express a special thanks to the caring staff of Commonwealth Senior Living of Hillsville and the caring staff of Medi Hospice.
Memories and Condolences
for Hattie Ruth Collins
Pamela Todd Trail
May 8, 2024
Charles, Terry and family...so sorry to hear about the loss of your Mom. May many fond memories comfort you all.
Nancy Keily
April 29, 2024
Dear Clysta,
I was saddened to hear of the loss of your wonderful Mother. When I met her and we spoke, she seemed to be such a gentle soul, talking happily about the family farm where she raised her children. And, where her husband still had a twinkle in his eyes for her. You told me that. Love and hugs to you during this very sorrowful time. Love, Nancy
Angel Reynolds
April 28, 2024
Hattie's family is in my thoughts and prayers!
Angel Reynolds
Gale and Randy Caudill
April 28, 2024
Charles and T.C. and all of your family,
We were so sorry to hear about your Mom. She was a very special lady and always had a smile when we walked into the office at Oakland School to see her or Mr. May. She was blessed to live such a long life. Please hold those fun family memories in your heart. You are all in our prayers. Take care.
Nancy Morris Joines
April 28, 2024
Hattie was a super sweet lady with a wicked sense of humor. She could be so funny. I always enjoyed running into her and Pierce. She lived a good life and was so proud of her family. May God Bless!
Linda Stoneman Richardson
April 27, 2024
My sympathy to the Collins family. I remember your mother well at Oakland Church as I grew up. It was a life well lived!
John and Marsha Tandy
April 27, 2024
We met Pierce and Hattie at the Blue Ridge Music Center shortly after we moved here from Ohio. Whenever we would see them anywhere, they were always so kind and welcoming to us. We always had such interesting conversations with them. AND oh yes! We loved their hats!
We extend our sincere sympathy to the family.
John and Marsha Tandy
Fancy Gap, VA
Jeff and Rita Spivey
April 27, 2024
Rita and I are so sorry for your loss. Keeping each of You in our Prayers at this difficult time.
Janet Dorsett
April 26, 2024
My deepest sympathy to the family! Hattie was a dear, sweet friend! I am forever sorry for your losing someone so special. Thinking of the family and sending my love. Pauline Robinson
Prayers and sympathy to the family. May wonderful memories comfort you. Janet Robinson Dorsett and Jean Robinson Winfrey
Richard Killen
April 26, 2024
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Laura Sumner
April 26, 2024
Mrs. Collins was the secretary at Oakland for my years there. I got to work in the office with her for a class period when I was in the 6th grade. She was always the sweetest lady and had such patience and grace. I'm very sorry for your loss - she was an amazing lady.
Ruth Hall
April 26, 2024
Charles and Family,
So sorry for your loss of your Mother. Condolences to you and your family.
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
Make a Donation
in Hattie Ruth Collins's name
Memorial Events
for Hattie Ruth Collins
Apr
28
Visitation
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Vaughan-Guynn Funeral Home - Galax201 West Center Street, Galax, VA 24333
Funeral services provided by:
Vaughan-Guynn Funeral Home - Galax201 West Center Street, Galax, VA 24333
How to support Hattie Ruth's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Hattie Ruth Collins's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
