Nancy Marie Collins

Nancy Marie Collins, of Sturgis, Kentucky, passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 13, 2026. She was born January 29, 1960, in Jacksonville, North Carolina, to Janice and Larry Jack Sale.

Nancy shared a lifelong love with her husband, Robert "Bobby" Wayne Collins. Their relationship began when they were just 12 years old, growing from childhood sweethearts into nearly 49 years of marriage.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Nancy dedicated her life to caring for children-not only her own, but many others as well. Later in life, she earned a degree in Early Childhood Education and spent her pre-retirement years teaching preschool. Her life was also guided by a strong faith and devotion to the Lord.

Nancy enjoyed the simple comforts of home. She could often be found curled up with a good mystery novel or watching a fictional crime series. She loved music, shopping for purses, shoes, clothes, and sparkly things, and especially loved hosting family and friends in her home. Known for her warm and welcoming spirit, Nancy never met a stranger and was deeply proud of her husband and children.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Janice and Larry Jack Sale; her sister, Julie Lynn Vinson; and her son, Robert William Collins.

Nancy is survived by her beloved husband, Robert "Bobby" Wayne Collins; her children, Janice and Chad Fenwick, Jillian and Ted Russelburg, Jamie Collins and partner Kelvin Bullock, and John-Robert Collins and partner Jalissa Runnels; her siblings, Larry Lee Sale and Susan and Phillip Bryan; eleven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended friends who were family to her.

Nancy will be remembered for her kindness, her faith, and the love she shared with everyone she met.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, March 17th at 5:30 PM at Whitsell Funeral Home in Sturgis, KY. Jeff Paris will officiate.

The visitation will be held from 2 PM until service time on Tuesday, March 17th at the Funeral Home.