Cleonice Santos Collins

December 15, 1936 - March 28, 2025
Cleonice DeJesus Santos Collins was a remarkable woman whose journey from Sao Luis, Maranhao, Brazil to the United States left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Born to Eduarda Mendes Serra and Isidro Antonio Dos Santos, Cleonice's early life was shaped by resilience and determination.
At the age of 17, she moved to Rio de Janeiro to live with her beloved aunt Ramunda and pursue nursing education. Despite only completing the 5th grade in her hometown, Cleonice graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1957 from the prestigious School of Nursing at the Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcantara in Petropolis. Her determination to succeed was truly extraordinary!
In 1967, Cleonice moved to New York City, where she met and married the love of her life, the late Thomas Collins Jr., in 1969. Her journey as a professional nurse in the United States began with challenges but blossomed through perseverance. Despite language barriers and an initial difficulty passing the written exam, Cleonice's exceptional skills shone through. A nursing director recognized her unique talents and allowed her to demonstrate her expertise through a practical exam-which she passed with flying colors!
Cleonice continued her education, attending night school and English classes, eventually becoming an accomplished Medical Surgical Technician (MST). Her first hospital role at Ward's Island paved the way for decades of service in hospitals and nursing homes, often working two jobs to support her family. Cleonice retired in 2002 from Coler-Goldwater Hospital, having dedicated her life to healthcare.
After retirement, Cleonice relocated to Jacksonville, Florida, embracing warmth and proximity to her cherished family. She lived independently in Taylor Homes and found joy in volunteering for the city Jacksonville, Florida. She shared her love for Brazilian culture by performing dances at senior centers, earning a 3rd place award in the Seniors Got Talent Contest for her captivating Samba!
Cleonice's strength and gratitude remained steadfast, even as she faced health challenges following her first stroke in 2018. For the past seven years, she was cared for at Brooks Rehabilitation, where she cultivated friendships and brought smiles to those around her.
Cleonice believed in the power of education and left words of wisdom for the next generation: "Focus on your studies and do not misuse time."
Cleonice was preceded in death by her parents-her father when she was just 8 or 9 years old and her mother during her teenage years. Her God Sister Aliete McKellar, Tim Mckellar Sr. God brother and Tim Mckellar Jr. God son.
Her memory lives on through her devoted children, Thomas Collins III and Epifania Concepcion Collins; loving daughter-in-law, Vanessa Teel-Collins; adoring grandchildren, Justina Collins, Thomas Collins IV, Deborah Santos Collins, Crystal DeJesus Collins, Isaac Terrell Collins, and Demetrius Cradle-Collins.
She is also survived by The Teel family and a "tribe" of family in Brazil, including 16 aunts and uncles, and over 32 cousins, whose lives were touched by her enduring spirit. Cleonice's legacy of love, perseverance, and passion continues to inspire us all.
Cleonice's life is a testament to unwavering strength, boundless love, and joyful celebration. May her memory bring comfort, laughter, and pride to all who cherished her.