Nancy Collins

Nancy Ann "Betty" Collins, 75, passed away on March 9th, 2025, in Billerica, Massachusetts. Born on September 29th, 1949, in Boston, Massachusetts, she lived a life filled with hard work, love, and devotion to her family.

Nancy was no stranger to dedication and perseverance. She spent many years as a waitress at Igo's and Fantasia's in Cambridge and later at Rudy's Cafe in Somerville. In 1994, Nancy embarked on a new career as a letter carrier for the Arlington Post Office, where she found joy in working outdoors. After retiring from the Post Office, she embraced what she considered the best job of all-caring for her grandchildren before and after school. She cherished baking with them and taking them to the park, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Nancy had a generous heart and an unwavering kindness that touched everyone who knew her. She loved big and found joy in life's simple pleasures. Whether she was reading a good book, tending to her garden, trying her luck at gambling, or enjoying meals at amazing restaurants, she embraced every moment with enthusiasm. She loved to travel and enjoyed spending time with her "Punta Cana" buddies. She also cherished spending time and enjoying a cold gin and tonic with her dear friend, Pauline Flynn, in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Above all else, she cherished time spent with her family, especially her beloved grandchildren who knew her as Ninny. Ninny enjoyed buying unique gifts for her grandchildren and loved it when they came to her house at Christmas.

She is survived by her daughter Marjorie Corbett; her son Jeffrey Corbett and his wife Suzanne Corbett; her grandchildren Elizabeth A. Corbett, Joseph G. Corbett, and Olivia C. Corbett; her siblings Lianne Jones, John Collins, Robert Collins and his wife Joan, Richard Collins and his wife Nancy, Ronald Collins and his wife Janet, Patricia Collins and her husband Rick Day, as well as by many beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Marjorie and William Collins; her brothers, Kevin Collins and David Collins; and her brother-in-law, James Jones.

Nancy's warmth and generosity will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her memory bring comfort to those who loved her. Her two favorite charities were the ALS Foundation (in memory of her beloved brother-in-law, Jimmy) and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Nancy's family would like to send their sincere thanks and love to her treasured home health aide, Sherrie. Sherrie was a significant force in Nancy's life after Nancy had a stroke in 2016. Sherrie helped Nancy and the entire family, and we are so thankful for her.

A celebration of her life will take place on Saturday, July 19th, in Woburn, MA. For details, please contact Margie or Jeff.