Amelia Mercedes Bachus Collins

1923 - 2023

Amelia Mercedes Bachus Collins, affectionately known as "Big Momma," passed away on December 10, 2023, at the age of 100. A life-long resident of New Orleans, Mercedes was born on March 3, 1923, to the late Margie Henderson and Felix E. Bachus, Sr. She was the devoted wife of the late Albert Lylton Collins and had four children. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Felix Edward Bachus, Jr. and Herbert Tracy Bachus, Sr. and her children, Mary Ann Collins Smith, Lylton Andrew Collins, Craig Felix Collins, daughter-in-law Vina C. Collins and son-in-law Ernest J. Pierre, Sr. She is survived by her daughter, Clentel Collins Pierre, son-in-law Samuel A. Smith, and 10 grandchildren: Ernest (Annette) Pierre, Jr., Alicia (Jeffery L.) Oliver, Burton (Deisa) Pierre, Nicole Pierre, Pamela (Leon) Brown, Sr., Lylton (Gabrielle) Collins II, Anne Collins Smith, Darius (Mercy) Collins, Kaila Collins, Naja Collins, 14 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, and nieces, nephews (including Herbert Tracy Bachus, Jr.), other relatives and friends. As we celebrate the remarkable life of Amelia Mercedes Bachus Collins, the family remembers her enduring love and the beautiful melody of a life well-lived. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Services at St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church, 3219 Danneel Street, New Orleans, La. 70115, on Friday, December 22, 2023, for 11:00 a.m. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Pastor C. J. Arvie, officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 4000 Norman Meyer Ave. New Orleans, LA 70122. Guestbook Online: www.anewtraditionbegins.com (504) 282-0600. Linear Brooks Boyd and Donavin D. Boyd Owners/Funeral Directors.