Dr. Frances L. Coleman Collins

1951 - 2024

Dr. Frances L. Coleman Collins

Dr. Frances L. Coleman Collins, a devoted educator, fierce and outspoken community leader, and beloved family matriarch, departed this life peacefully at home surrounded by family on August 2, 2024. Frances was born on February 2, 1951 in Jacksonville, Florida and lived a life that was nothing short of extraordinary-a life woven with love, curiosity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to education, community, and family.

Frances attended Alabama A&M University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in History and Political Science. She continued to advance her education at the University of Toledo, obtaining a Master of Education Degree and ultimately achieving the highest academic accomplishment, a PhD in Educational Administration and Supervision from Bowling Green State University.

Dr. Collins worked over three decades with the Toledo Public Schools, where she taught at Libbey, Leverette, and Scott and later served as Assistant Principal at Old West End and Woodward. Though Dr. Collins was honored with numerous awards and recognitions, her true legacy lies in the lasting impact she made on the countless young people she taught, mentored, and befriended.

Frances was a pillar in her community. She was a member of the Toledo Chapter of the National Association of Negro Business & Professional Women's Club, The Links, Incorporated, a Read for Literacy and Crittenden House volunteer, and served on the Art Tatum Center and YWCA of Northwest Ohio Board of Directors. Finally, she was a proud life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Matthew; her grandson, Dontai Robinson II; her sister, Claretha Long; her sister-cousin, Loretta Price; her brother-cousin, Lorenzo Lewis; and her brother, Ricky. She leaves to cherish her precious memory her daughter, Alexii Collins of Toledo, Ohio; her son, Matthew Collins II (Courtney) of Atlanta, Georgia; her grandchildren, Isis (Sal) Darks and Jordan Collins of Brooklyn, NY. Jada Collins of Toledo, Ohio, Bree and Brooke Collins of Atlanta, Georgia; her great-grandchildren, Aria and Aerie Richards of Brooklyn, NY; her niece, Toya Fikes (Jennifer); her great-nephew, Markelle Andino; her bonus granddaughter, Gabrielle Knighten; and a host of other relatives and friends.

The viewing will be held on August 22, 2024, at the House of Day Funeral Home from 5:00 -7:00 p.m. The funeral will be on August 23, 2024, starting at 2:00 p.m. at the same location.