Mary Stella Radley

Mary Stella Radley (Nani), 89, of Austin, Texas, passed away on May 8, 2025, in her home surrounded by the love and warmth of her family. She was a beloved Mother, Grandmother & Great Grandmother. Mary lived a full and unforgettable life defined by strength, wit, and an unwavering love for her family.

Mary was born to Delfina and Filomeno Roybal in Beulah, New Mexico on March 6, 1936. In 1956, she married Carl Terry Collins, and together they raised four children who continue to carry her legacy: Robert Collins of Cedar Park, Carl Collins of Austin, Cynthia Collins of Austin, and Angela Collins Azarpour of Austin.

Mary was the heart and soul of her family — the matriarch who created a lifetime of joyful memories. She made every Christmas magical, every meal unforgettable, and every moment in her presence meaningful. Her home was a haven filled with the smells of baking cookies, the laughter of grandchildren at sleepovers, and the beauty of a well-tended garden.

She had a sharp wit, a radiant sense of humor, and a courageous spirit. Mary loved fiercely and honestly — never enabling, always empowering. She was the one you could count on for the truth, even when it stung, and she had a way of lighting up a room with her sarcasm, humor, and strength.

Mary is preceded in death by her husband and father to her children, Carl Terry Collins, her life partner, Augustine “Tito” Gonzales, her siblings, Ben Roybal, Katie Roybal Wintz, Paul Roybal & Robert Roybal, her grandchildren Jason Patrick Riley and Melissa Riley, and great-grandchildren Baby Carlos, Baby Angelina, and Baby Nyjah. She is survived by her children, Robert Collins & wife Marcia Collins, Carl Collins & wife Rebecca Collins, Cynthia Collins, Angela Collins Azarpour & husband Kian Azarpour. Her sisters, Virginia Roybal of Pueblo, CO, Geneva Esquibel of Las Vegas, NM & Angie Bolle of Hot Springs, AR. 11 Grandkids, 17 Great Grandkids & 2 Great, great Grandkids.

She was a force of nature — brave, strong, loving, and unapologetically real. Her presence left a lasting mark on all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 14th from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, followed by services. Please join us for a reception at 4:30pm after services are complete to celebrate the life of our dear Nani.

Cook-Walden Funeral Home

6100 N. Lamar Blvd - Austin, TX. 78752