Colleen Shelton Collins, 84, of Francisco, N.C., died Tuesday, April 19, 2016, at Pioneer Community Hospital in Stuart. Born October 17, 1931, she was a daughter of the late Sanders Shelton and Mary Addie Hill Shelton. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Glenn Collins; and a daughter, Tamela Alice Collins. She was a life-long resident of the Francisco community. She graduated from Appalachian State Teachers College in 1952 and began a 36-year career as an elementary school teacher in Patrick County and in Stokes County, N.C. She was a member of Francisco Presbyterian Church for over 50 years, having served as Sunday school teacher and elder. She was also a member of the Francisco Fire Department’s Ladies Auxiliary, Stokes County Retired Teachers Association, and Eastern Star of Pilot Mountain. Survivors include her children: Tanya Lynette Collins of the home, Tommy Collins, Terry Collins, all of Francisco, and Tracey Collins of Collinstown, N.C., one sister, Ruby Shelton of King, N.C., eight grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and several cousins, nieces and nephews. The funeral service was held Saturday at Francisco Presbyterian Church. Burial was in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association in your area or to Hospice. Great appreciation is expressed to the staffs of Pioneer Community Hospital in Danbury, N.C., Rose Tara Assisted Living in King, N.C., Pioneer Community Hospital in Stuart, Mountain Valley Hospice of Stuart, and to Dr. Sam Newsome of King and Dr. Nicholas Kipreos of Stuart. Arrangements were by Howell-Nelson Funeral Service of Pilot Mountain, N.C.. Online condolences may be made at www.howellfuneralservices.com.
