Mable Elizabeth (Edwards) Collins

Mable Elizabeth Edwards-Collins, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, born February 6, 1931, in Amissville, Virginia, to Buford and Mattie E. Edwards, passed away peacefully, December 27, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication.

Mable was the sixth of eleven children, growing up in a close-knit family with seven brothers and three sisters. She began her education in Amissville, later attending Manassas Industrial High School, where she stayed on campus for three years, before completing her studies at George Washington Carver High School in Rappahannock, Virginia, in 1949.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. She joined Bethel Baptist Church under the guidance of Luther Banks, where she was an active choir member for some time. Years later she recommitted her life to Christ and would be found in the mornings reading her Bible and praying before starting her day. In 1950, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she began her professional journey, working for the Government Services Administration (GSI) for 17 years.

In 1951, Mable married Dan Collins. From that union, they had one son (Dennis), and later in 1954, she had a daughter (Doris), both of whom she cherished deeply. A lifelong learner and dedicated caregiver, Mable pursued her passion for nursing by attending Mary Martha Washington Trade School in 1970, where she became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She then embarked on a fulfilling career at Howard University Hospital, serving for 24 years. During her tenure, Mable received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Sojourner Truth Award, the District of Columbia Hospital Association Distinguished Service Award, and other honors recognizing her commitment to excellence in patient care. She retired in 1991.

Even in retirement, Mable’s servant heart shone brightly.  She volunteered at the National Food  Bank from 1992 to 2008, continuing to touch lives and give back to her community.

Mable loved to travel, read, play word games, solve puzzles, watch Soap Operas and quiz shows. She found joy in these simple pleasures and shared her vibrant spirit with all who knew her. She is survived by her beloved children, Dennis Collins and Doris Ceasar (Norman); three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Mary Edwards and Alberta (Maynard “Jake”) Clipper; three brothers, Warner, Ivan (Betty), and Earl (Joyce) and a host of extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory. Her life was a testament to hard work, compassion, and resilience. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.

May she rest in eternal peace.

A graveside service will take place on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 12 PM at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery, 705 Viewtown Road, Amissville, VA 20186.  Rev. Henry Hall will eulogize.

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