Jane B. Collins

Betty Jane Collins, affectionately known as Jane, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2024, leaving a legacy of love, generosity, and creativity. Born on June 22, 1934, in Washington, Pennsylvania, Jane was a cherished daughter of John Lewis Becker and Edna Jane Becker. She grew up with her older half-siblings, John Lawrence (Buss) and Helen.

 Jane's early years were marked by her active participation in the Girl Scouts and reading, cooking, and sewing; skills she lovingly acquired from her mother. After graduating from Washington High School, Jane pursued art studies at Florida Southern University before transferring to Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, to study Fashion Design. 

 After college, Jane remained in St. Louis, where she worked as a salesperson in a women's clothing store and later at American Investment Co. In 1960, she met her devoted life companion, Clyde "Cy" Collins, while serving as a bridesmaid at his brother's wedding. They married on August 27, 1961, at her parents' home in Washington, Pennsylvania. 

During their marriage, Jane and Cy lived in Rolla, Missouri; Greendale, Wisconsin; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and finally, Richardson, Texas, where they lived for over forty years. 

 After moving to Texas, Jane worked for the Richardson YWCA and later at Messiah Lutheran Lambs Early Childhood School. She found her true passion in early childhood education, teaching (5-Day) preschool where she nurtured and loved all the students. After she retired, Jane continued volunteering for many years in the Messiah Lambs teacher workroom. 

 Jane generously shared her time and talents. In Cedar Rapids, Iowa, she knit, crocheted, and sewed stylish doll clothes and handmade items for the Fall Craft Fair at Lovely Lane United Methodist Church. Jane encouraged others to vote as a volunteer for the League of Women Voters in Iowa and Texas. She volunteered at her daughter’s schools and her church congregations in various capacities. Together with Cy, Jane led adult Bible studies for many years at Messiah Lutheran Church in Texas. 

 Preceded in death by her parents and siblings. Survived by husband, Cy; daughters Amy (Greg), Jennifer (John), and Rebecca (Dave); grandchildren, Liv, Meghan (Christian), Micah, Ethan, Alison, and Carolyn; niece, Terri Mancini, nephew, Tom Becker, and multiple great nieces and nephews.

Jane will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, and encouragement. Her life was a testament to her faith and love. She leaves behind a family who adored her and countless friends who cherished her friendship.

Visitation with the Collins family will take place at Charles W. Smith & Sons Funeral Home, 2925 5th St, Sachse, TX 75048, on Thursday, December 19, 6-8 pm.

 Join us to celebrate Jane’s life on Friday, December 20, 2024, at noon at Messiah Lutheran Church, 1801 W. Plano Pkwy, Plano, TX 75075. A luncheon with the family will follow. Burial before the service is private.

In place of flowers, Jane’s family requests memorial donations to Messiah Lutheran Lambs Early Childhood School, The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. 

 Cy and the family extend much appreciation and thanks to the Rowlett Health and Rehabilitation staff and VNA Hospice staff for their excellent loving care during Jane’s last years