Arlene Collins, 92

Arlene Joyce Collins, age 92, of Leonidas, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, November 13, 2023. She was born in Leonidas on December 19, 1930 the daughter of Loyd and Elda (Krumm-Hagelgans) Outman. She was a graduate from Colon High School in 1949 and continued her studies at Grand Rapids School of the Bible and Music. On August 18, 1956 Arlene would marry John B. Collins in Leonidas.

Arlene spent her life serving her Lord and her family. She was a member of Factoryville Bible Church and was in charge of their nursery for many years. Arlene did extensive family research, compiling many photos and lineage before the internet capabilities we have today. She was the bookkeeper for John’s business and helped the family with mowing cemeteries in Leonidas and Athens when John was the sexton. She was often given the job of “parts runner” for her family. Arlene was a caring mother and a loving grandmother.

Arlene is survived by her children; John S. Collins, Ronald Collins, Sue (Donnie) Eakins, Carolyn Collins, and Beth (Curtis) Bennett; sisters in-laws, Mary Ann Lander, Shirley (Cliff) Aspinall, Colleen (Timothy) Habermehl, Carol Outman, and Betty Outman; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandson; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband John, her parents, siblings Harold (Winona) Outman, Leon (Margaret) Outman, Leroy (Maria) Outman, Wayne Outman, Lyle (Rosemary) Outman, Stan Outman, Doris (Ralph) Meyer, and Ardis (Richard) Barnebee; sister in-law Dorothy Hamby; brothers in-law David Collins, Stephen Collins, and Timothy Lander; grandson Gabriel Collins; four pre-born babies, and great-great grandson Enzo Eugene.

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 10am until 12 Noon at Factoryville Bible Church (33650 Factoryville Road, Athens, MI 49011) with funeral services for Arlene starting at 12 Noon with Pastor Shon Deal and Pastor Curtis Bennett officiating. Immediately following the funeral, interment will take place at Burr Oak Cemetery in Athens. It is suggested that memorials and contributions in Arlene’s name be made to the Factoryville Bible Church Nursery or Leonidas Bible Church. Condolences and memories may be expressed to the family at eickhofffuneralhome.com