Patsy Ann Collins-Shields

On May 23, 2025, the Lord welcomed home a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Patsy Ann Collins-Shields, as she entered into eternal rest. In Heaven, she was joyfully reunited with her mother, Aretha Collins.

A military service will be held at 3:00 PM on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA. A separate celebration of life will be held at a later date in Patsy’s hometown of Dawson, Georgia.

Born on September 17, 1965, in Dawson, GA, Patsy was the cherished daughter of the late Aretha Collins. A proud graduate of Terrell County High School, she went on to serve her country with honor in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSGT). Her service took her around the world to several duty stations —including Korea, Japan, Texas, Alabama, and ultimately back home to Georgia. She was also deployed to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm.

Patsy lived a vibrant, multifaceted life. After her military career, she worked as an X-ray Technician at South Georgia Medical Center, and later became a devoted ordained singles minister at her church in Valdosta, GA. A lifelong fashion enthusiast, she also worked at JCPenney—a role she embraced not only for the joy of working but also to support her well-known love of shopping.

Those who knew Patsy will always remember her radiant presence. She was rarely seen without her makeup, styled hair, high heels, and dazzling jewelry—whether heading to the grocery store, attending church, visiting her son’s school, or spending cherished moments with family.

A passionate lifelong learner and avid reader, Patsy frequently enrolled in college courses simply for the joy of gaining knowledge. She majored in Psychology, often joking that it helped her better understand her family.

But more than anything, Patsy Ann Collins-Shields loved her family. She is survived by her beloved son, Patrick Shields, his wife Rebecca, and their children: Patrick II, Tyson, Benjamin, and her cherished granddaughter Aaliyah. She also leaves behind her siblings: Violet Alexander, Joann Harvey, Barbara Smith, Clint Collins, Jimmy Lee Collins, Tyrone Collins, and Priscilla Pickett, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to cousin Caroline Stinson, sister-in-law Tanya Collins, niece Azia Collins, and niece Felecia Nobles for their unwavering support.

Patsy’s vibrant spirit, fierce devotion to family, and unforgettable sense of style will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.