Ann Elizabeth Collins

October 17, 1942 – October 30, 2026

Ann Elizabeth Collins, 84, passed away on October 30, 2026, just thirteen days after celebrating her 84th birthday.

Born Ann Elizabeth Newman on October 17, 1942, in Augusta, Georgia, she grew up in the Evans and Augusta communities. Having overcome childhood polio and grown up with very little, Ann developed a spirit of determination, resourcefulness, and generosity that remained with her throughout her life.

Above all, Ann was a devoted mother and the beloved matriarch of five generations. She was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, lovingly known as Grandma throughout the generations. She stood behind her children in all their endeavors and loved her family fiercely, a love they returned wholeheartedly.

Ann shared twenty-five years of marriage with her beloved late husband, Jack Smith Collins, who affectionately called her “Baby Doll.” She proudly displayed that cherished nickname on her personalized license plate, “BABYDOL.” Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and family gatherings.

A gifted Southern cook, Ann was especially famous for her legendary Thanksgiving dressing and friendship cakes. Each year, she shared her friendship cakes and the fruit starters used to make them, passing along a tradition that may still be continuing in kitchens today.

Ann delighted in finding treasures at thrift stores and decorating her home with carefully arranged collections. She loved puzzles and possessed an extraordinary memory, particularly for telephone numbers.

She was also known for her wonderful sense of humor and playful practical jokes. If a gathering became a little too quiet, Ann was perfectly willing to provide the ball, the hill, and the push!

A lifelong Baptist, Ann taught her children to love God and believe in Jesus Christ. Her Christian faith continued through her children and the generations that followed.

Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack Smith Collins, and her sons, Thomas Penrow and David Penrow.

She is survived by her children, Denise Crabb, Diana Marx, William Penrow (Elena), Joyce Germany, Teresa Beery (Walter), Pete Overby (Ruth), and Eddie Overby, along with generations of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and many other beloved family members.

As her family so lovingly expressed it, “Mom gave us our first prayers, and we gave her last.”

Ann leaves behind a legacy of faith, laughter, treasured traditions, and a family that will love her fiercely for generations to come.