Betty R. Collins

Betty R. Collins, wife of Elliott, mother of Kathy and Steve and grandmother of Laura and Tim, died Feb. 23, 2015, peacefully, at her home in Longmont, Colorado. She leaves a legacy of love, compassion and service to others.Betty was born July 9, 1919, in Washington, D.C., to Laura Haberthur Hart and Harry Hart. After her parents' death, Betty's aunt and uncle, Elizabeth and Albert Reiss, raised her in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Drexel Institute in Philadelphia in 1941 with a bachelor of science degree. She enlisted in the United States Army in 1943 and served at Sheppard Field, Wichita Falls, Texas; Betty was a first lieutenant when she was discharged in 1946. She moved to Washington after her military service to work as a dietitian at Columbia Hospital for Women. During this time in Washington, a mutual friend introduced Betty to Elliott J. Collins, who had also been stationed at Sheppard Field.Betty and Elliott married in 1947 and shared nearly 63 wonderful years together until Elliott's death in 2010. They lived in Mendham, New Jersey, from 1962 until they moved to Longmont in 2004.Betty enjoyed a 43-year career as a registered dietitian, including many years of service with the Veterans Administration. She and Elliott lived in South Carolina, Michigan and New Jersey before moving to Longmont.Betty enjoyed a good game of bridge, gardening, cooking, traveling, cross-country skiing, a good cup of coffee and being with her family. She is survived by her daughter Kathy and son-in-law Bill Mintz, who live in Houston, Texas; her son Steve and daughter-in-law Marlene, who live in Hygiene, and their children Laura, a college student in Denver, and Tim, a college student in Portland, Oregon.Kathy says her mother was a steady, loving and supportive influence; she was ahead of her time as a professional woman and a great role model.Steve says his mother's policy that the guest gets the best has taught him that generosity and service are among the most brilliant guiding lights in life. The family is very grateful for the loving care and friendship provided by many caregivers, especially Mark who was Betty's companion after Elliott's death and Florita, Cece, Ana, Scott, Rachel and J.T. Everyone who connected with Betty knew her as generous and gracious. Her smile warmed us all.