Katherine Adele Collins

Katherine Adele Collins, age 82, of Chattanooga went home to be with her Lord Thursday, April 8, 2021. She was born November 24, 1938 in New York City, NY to her parents who were German immigrants, the late Louis & Martha Steffens.

She graduated from Jamaica High School at the age of 16 and went to work for AT&T. Soon after she met her husband while he was stationed in New York. She was a faithful wife to him serving by his side in the United States Air Force for 23 years traveling to many states and countries. She was devoted to her family, demonstrating unconditional love to each member.

Mrs. Collins came to know the Lord at the age of 28 while living in Hawaii. She was involved in many ministries wherever she lived. She became a member at Grace Baptist Church in 1978. She was a Sunday school teacher for the one year olds for 30 years and many affectionately knew her as “Mema”. Later she attended the Ambassadors Sunday School Class. Mrs. Collins was a tremendous prayer-warrior.

Mrs. Collins was well known for being a great cook, especially when it came to her Sunday dinners. Her many talents included sewing, crafts, gardening, bird watching and loving her dogs. Her genuine hospitality was a true gift.

Her husband of 58 years, James Aaron Collins preceded her in death.

Survivors include her son, James R. (Karen) Collins of Chattanooga, TN; daughters, Janet L. (Gary) Goodge of Cleveland, TN and Joan C. (Michael) Swanson of Chattanooga, TN; grandchildren, James R. (Maggie) Collins, of San Antonia, TX, Kami M. (Chris) Leonard of Ringgold, GA, Jessica (Brent) Coley of Cleveland, TN, Emily G. (Trent) Walker of Charlottesville, VA, Lauren G. (Drew) Frye of Chattanooga, TN, Jeremiah Goodge of Cleveland, TN, Alan M. Swanson of Chattanooga, TN, Jonathan S. (Nicole) Swanson of Neenah, WI, and Timothy “T. J.” Swanson of Charleston, SC; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at the East Brainerd Chapel from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 12:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Dr. Steven Euler officiating.

Mrs. Collins will be laid to rest with her husband at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Baptist Church, 7815 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.