Violet Collins

Violet Jane Venable Kulcke Collins
1933-2025
Violet Kulcke Collins passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones.
Violet was born on September 24, 1933, in West Monroe, just across from Brown Paper Mill. She was a graduate of Ouachita Parish High School and later received both her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Louisiana Monroe.
In 1955, Violet married Bill Kulcke. They lived in the married couples' dorm underneath LSU Tiger Stadium in the 1950s and later started their careers and family in Monroe. After Bill's passing, Violet met and married Cactus Jack Collins, with whom she shared her retirement years, creating cherished memories.
Violet began working summers as a library page at the Anna Meyer branch of the Ouachita Parish Public Library downtown as a teenager in 1950. She taught English at Jefferson Jr. High and served as the school's librarian in 1959. Violet's professional journey continued with OPPL, where she held various positions, including Reference Librarian, Circulation Librarian, Children's Librarian, and Bookmobile Librarian (her favorite job). Later, she served as Assistant Librarian for the Parish System under Frances Flanders. She would also be a Trustee for the Ouachita Parish Library Board of Control. In 1976, Violet became the Neville High Librarian and taught American History.
When she retired in 1988, Violet began traveling the world. She never met a plane, train, automobile, or boat she didn't want to board.
Her next destination requires no physical means of transportation; it's simply her unwavering belief in her traveling companion, the Lord Jesus.
Violet was a member of First Methodist Church, PEO, and was a Chapter V Golden Girl (55 years), United Methodist Women Circle #3, was the former President of the ULM Alumni Association, and was active in the Neville Retired Teachers lunch group.
Violet was a devoted Methodist, believing the pathway to heaven required a covered dish and a blender to make daiquiris. Her smile and zest for living were infectious and radiated to everyone she met. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but she left a mark everywhere: in the students she taught, the patrons she guided, the sewing and stained-glass projects she created, and most importantly, in the hearts of those lucky enough to have loved her and be loved by her.
Violet was preceded in death by her parents, Edward Venable and Elma Tillman; her sister, Peggy Venable Futch; her husbands, Charles William Kulcke and Jack Vernon Collins; her grandsons, Charles Dylan Kulcke and John Andrew Collins.
Survivors include her son and daughter, Eric (Cissy) and Kyle (Bill); her grandson, Caleb (Lauren); her great grandchildren, Alice and Elijah; her brothers, Joel and Dennis (Susan); her special nieces, Monya and Tracy; her devoted friend and Ministry of Hope provider, Nancy Meinel; her faithful caregiver, Irene Deal; dear friends, Marilyn and Beth; and beloved Collins and Hudec family.
A memorial celebration of life will be held on a later date.
Special thanks to Annalese, Denise, David, T'Era, and the entire staff at Elara Caring for their compassionate support.
Memorials can be made to the First Methodist Church in Monroe or the library of your choice.