Janet Ruth "Collins" Mayers

Janet Ruth Collins Mayers Janet Ruth Collins Mayers, age 89, formerly of Conway, S.C., passed away peacefully on January 20th, 2026, in Augusta, Georgia.

Janet was born on December 9, 1936, in Mullins, S.C. She was the beloved daughter of the late Estaline Capps Collins and Kenneth Hugh Collins, Sr.

She attended Winthrop University in Rock Hill, S.C., and would marry the love of her life, Charles (Chuck) Preston Mayers, in 1956. They moved to Conway in 1968 and were married for 56 years.

Janet was a faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Conway. She was an accomplished contralto, a member of the Trinity UMC choir, and a frequent soloist. Janet was a founding member of the Theater of the Republic. She starred in many performances there and served on its board for years. Janet performed in countless productions, often in leading roles. Her memorable performances included Nellie in South Pacific; Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar (performed at Coastal Carolina University); Mame in Mame; Mona in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas; and Ouiser in Steel Magnolias. Whether in drama or comedy, Janet embraced every role with passion, discipline, and joy-but musical theater was always her truest love.

She is survived by her two sons, Charles (Chuck) Collins Mayers (Tricia) of Augusta, Georgia, and Bradley Dwyer Mayers (Sharon) of Conway. Her four grandchildren are Charles "Marshall" Mayers (Christina) of Augusta, Georgia; Virginia Mayers of Denver, Colorado; Emilee B. Mayers; and Enoch "Preston" Mayers of Conway. She had two great-grandsons, Charles Mayers and Bennett Mayers of Augusta, Georgia. She is also survived by her sisters, Esta Collins Parrish (David) of Winter Park, Florida, Kimela Collins of Mullins, S.C., and brother-in-law John "Robin" Mayers of Laurinburg, N.C.

She was predeceased by her much-loved and only brother, Kenneth "Ace" Collins, Jr.

The Final Casting Call will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 11:00 am with visitation at 10:00 am at the Theater of Republic, 331 N. Main St, Conway. The Rev. Harold Lewis will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Janet's memory to Theater of The Republic. Attn: Tim 331 N Main Street, Conway, SC 29526. https://www.theatreoftherepublic.com/

To view these details online or to offer words of comfort through the online guest book, visit www.burroughsfh.com.

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Service (843.651.1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.