Jun 16, 1927---Feb 04, 2023

Surrounded by the love of her family, Jean Therese Collins (Male), passed away on February 4, 2023 at the age of 95. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Frederick J. Collins, an infant son, James and son, John, sister Mary Kathryn Winston and brother Charles Male.  She is survived by her sister, Elizabeth Dugan, brother John Male, and her children, Dennis Collins (Karen), Janet Hensler (Mark), Mary Beth McKinzie (Terry), Cathy Edmondson (Mark), Peter Collins (Lisa) and daughter-in-law Jane Rafter. Jean was blessed with seventeen grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.  

Jean Collins was born on the 16th day of June in 1927, the third of five children born to Charles and Kathryn Male.  She met and married Frederick J. Collins and they celebrated over 60 years of marriage, before his passing in July of 2011. Together and through their lives they enjoyed many friends they had known since grade school.

Jean’s greatest joy in life was being surrounded by her family. They all share special memories of holidays spent at “Nana and Pops” and in later years being together at her current home, Anthology of Overland Park.  She was a talented seamstress and was known for her fashionable wardrobe and sense of style. Jean was a devout Catholic and a wonderful example to her family of the power of prayer and faith in God.

 Jean was an active member of Ladies of Charity, serving on the board in various capacities for 12 years and volunteered at Seton Center in Kansas City Kansas. She enjoyed playing tennis into her 70’s, along with sewing and cooking for her family.  Jean was an avid sports fan, cheering on the KU Jayhawks and Kansas City Chiefs just to mention a few. She completed a daily crossword puzzle with a pen; she made no mistakes.  She always enjoyed playing bridge with her many friends.

She loved spending time and sharing stories with her 17 grandchildren, Megan (Aaron) Shinn, Emily (Kory) Roth, Jack Collins, Ryan, (Jamie) Hensler, Justin Hensler and Kylie, (Jeff) Owens, Tyler and Garrett McKinzie, Joe Collin, Katie, (Stephen) Wiss, Valerie, (Todd) Crippen, Stephanie, (Preston) Elder, Maggie, (fiancé, Neal) Edmondson, Crawford, (Sarah), Whit, Campbell, & Cooper Collins. Jean loved keeping up with her 10 great-grandchildren, Rider, Gabriella, Brady, Landon, Hudson, Jaxson, Oliver, Gus, Elias and Teddy.

The family would like to thank The Good Shephard Hospice nurses for the loving care they gave to our mom in her final days. 

Jean considered Anthology of Overland Park her home.  During her six years there, she made many special friends that became like a second family to her.

In Jean’s own words, “I have had a wonderful life, some sorrows but mostly joys.



Condolences

Mike Boyle Feb 06, 2023

Friend ,Helena ,Montana

Jean and Fred were like a second set of parents for me growing up. Fred, my godfather, grew up with my dad. Fred & Jean's relationship continued with Bill & Jean Boyle throughout their lives. Their son, Dennis, and I were born a day apart and attended Rockhurst High School together. There is even photo evidence of the Collins at mom & dad's wedding in Santa Monica in 1951! Jean & I maintained regular correspondence regarding our families - and, of course, The Chiefs! This is - in a way - the "end of an era" for our folks; but I am positive that they are enjoying each other's company as we speak. Fair skies and following seas, Jean Collins. AMDG!

Theresa A Sullivan Feb 06, 2023

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

We are saddened to read about your Mother's passing. We met Jean at Anthology when we would bring Communion and pray the rosary with her and the other Catholic residents. We always enjoyed visiting with her after the service. She was very sweet, kind and fun to talk to. We will certainly miss seeing her. May God comfort you and bless you. Theresa and Mike Sullivan

Marjie (Dexter) Podzielinski Feb 07, 2023

Neighbor ,The Woodlands ,Texas

We were privileged to live across the street at 4501 W 70th Jean was our surrogate mom and would drive us to the pool on hot summer days She spent most afternoons sewing clothes for Janet, MaryBeth and Cathy. She was always there if we needed anything . I loved seeing her messages on Facebook . Fred, Jean and the whole Collins family hold a special place in my heart. What a wonderful life she lived. Prayers for you all. ??????????

Sharon Fasl Feb 07, 2023

Friend ,Prairie Village ,Kansas

Mary Beth and family, My condolences on the loss of your Mom. I recall many of the stories you told of her while we worked together. What a long life to be celebrated.

Andrew Gage Feb 09, 2023

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

My condolences to Jeans family and friends. I only met Jean a few times, but she was a wonderful friend to my Mom, Alice Gage, who passed away four months ago. They became friends while residents at Anthology of Overland Park; and they enjoyed many meals and conversations together. I am so grateful for the friendship they developed; and I know that both will have a chance to meet again in heaven. I send my prayers and best wishes to you all during this difficult time. God Bless! Andrew Gage