Wanda J. Collins

Wanda Janelle Blake Collins was born on September 22, 1956, in San Angelo, Texas, to James “Jim” and Paulyne (Johnson) Blake. She passed away on March 7, 2026, in Willow Springs, Missouri, at the age of 69.

Wanda spent her early years moving across the country with her parents during her father’s military service. As an adult, she made her home in Missouri, where she married Tim Collins on April 5, 1975. Together they raised five daughters and were blessed with 30 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren, many of whom she lovingly claimed as her own. She worked at Rawlings until the plant closed, then enjoyed a long and successful career at Willow Care Nursing Home.

She found quiet pleasure in working puzzles, crocheting, sewing, playing cards, and fishing, yet nothing brought her greater joy than being surrounded by her family. She is remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose love for her people was steadfast and deep.

Wanda was preceded in death by her father, James Blake; her brother, Bobby Blake; and her grandson, Austin Lee Shaul. She is survived by her husband, Tim Collins; her daughters, Wendy Collins and partner Chad Coble of Willow Springs, Tracy and husband Eric Velarde of Pomona, Melissa and husband Jason Boyer of Willow Springs, Marsha and husband Chris Dickerson of Bozeman, Montana, and Laura and husband Cody Harrington of Willow Springs; her mother, Marty Blake; her siblings Danny, Billy, Vanessa, Glenda, Marsha, and Jymi; 30 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who will carry her memory with love.