Debbie Crowder Collins

COLLINS, Debbie Crowder, 71, of Richmond, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 29th, surrounded by her loving children and family, following a valiant four-year battle with cancer. She was greeted in heaven by her beloved husband, Thomas "Tommy" Collins Jr., her mother Bernice L. Crowder, and her father-in-law, Thomas "Tom" Collins Sr.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Courtney (Steve) Martin, Brittany (Kenny) Moreland, Christopher Collins, and her adored golden retriever, Bailey. Debbie also leaves behind her three granddaughters, Riley Moreland, Kennedy Moreland, and Addison Martin who served as her inspiration and source of strength throughout her battle with cancer. She is survived by her older sisters, Gwen (Ronnie) Gardner and Pam (Harm) Fisher, her mother-in-law of 47 years, Daphne Collins, her sister in laws Brenda (Mike) Blackard, Claudia (Doug) Smith, along with numerous nieces, great-nieces, nephews, great-nephews, and wonderful friends.

Debbie's childhood on Hampstead Ave in Richmond was filled with cherished memories, playing sports and games with neighborhood friends. It was there, at the tender age of six, that she met her husband, Tommy. After reconnecting following high school, they married on July 23rd, 1977 and had three beautiful children. Their union lasted 16 years until Tommy's unexpected passing in 1993.

After graduating from Douglas S. Freeman High School in 1971, Debbie embarked on a remarkable 35-year career in Sales & Marketing at Reynolds Metal Company, retiring in 2008.

Debbie found immeasurable pride and joy in her children, whom she raised as a dedicated, single working mother. She took immense pride in guiding all three of them through college and witnessing their successful careers, marriages and relationships. Though Debbie remained humble about her role, she was undeniably the driving force behind her children's strength and resilience. Debbie's granddaughters brought her boundless happiness and fulfillment and she enjoyed cheering them on at sporting events, school plays and spending quality time playing board games and cards together. She also passionately supported her beloved UNC Tarheels basketball team - never missing a game on tv.

Debbie faced life's challenges with unparalleled strength, meeting each obstacle with a smile and unwavering determination and strength. While her loss leaves a void in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, family, and friends, they take comfort in knowing she is reunited with her husband after 30 years.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful and compassionate doctors and nurses at Women's Cancer & Wellness Institute, Johnston-Willis Hospital, and James River Hospice, especially Dr. Randal West and Michelle Colt.

A private burial service will be held for family members, followed by a Celebration of Life open to all (date and time to be announced).