Willa B. Collins was born June 8, 1931 to John Rufus and Katherine Houston.  She departed this life on March 17, 2026.Willa married her love Edgar Collins, Jr. November 1950.   She was a member of St. Phillips Episcopal Church. Willa sang in the choir and attended church until her health prevented it.

A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, Willa dedicated her life to caring for her family and creating a warm, welcoming home. Though she did not work outside the home, her work within it shaped generations…..leaving a legacy of love, strength, and quiet grace. Every Saturday she would make a big pot of chili for her husband and five children to eat and enjoy all day!!!

Willa found joy in simple pleasures. She was an avid reader.  She loved the library and devoured books and magazines. Willa enjoyed starting her day with the Akron Beacon Journal in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other!  She enjoyed her plants both inside and outside and stayed active jogging well into her later years. Willa also served her community by working at the polls during elections, doing her part to support the democratic process.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her children David (Linda) Collins, Hampton Ga, Mark Collins, Beverly Collins, Jeffrey (Sharon) Collins and Derrek Collins (all from Akron). She is also survived by her sister Reverend Danella Bryant (Charlotte NC) and sister in law Freddie Faye Collins. Grandchildren David Clay, Aaron, Mark Jr., Anitra, LaVelle, Charese, Chazz, Dexter, Teaerra, Brandon and Christopher John. Great and Great Great Grandchildren, Arielle, Tracy III, Jade, Ja'Nay, Tracy, Asante, Alana, Jae Von, JaeDien, David, Carter, Zoe, Sydney, Summer, Nathan.  More recent blessings, Great Great Grandchildren Jade, Amarr, Elijah, Isaiah and Samuel. She also will be missed by longtime friend Mrs. Lois Parker and special family friend Ms. Melody Parkman.