Donna Jean Collins

Donna was born in Springfield on May 31, 1934, to Clyde and Marie Anna (Kerske) Betts. She later married the love of her life, Philip W. Collins, Jr., in Chicago on November 27, 1981, beginning a beautiful chapter filled with love, laughter, and family.

A proud graduate of Feitshans High School, Donna went on to dedicate 29 years of service to the State of Illinois before retiring. She carried that same commitment and care into every part of her life.

Donna found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved gathering with friends for bridge games, knitting thoughtful gifts for loved ones, getting lost in a good book, and enjoying a good shopping trip. She especially enjoyed dinner and cocktails with friends at Lime Street Café, a favorite local spot she frequented often. Her kitchen was often filled with warmth, wonderful meals, and the laughter of family. Donna had a truly generous heart and took great pride in making others feel welcome, valued, and cared for. She never hesitated to lend a helping hand to those less fortunate.

Her faith was an important part of her life. Donna was a devoted member of Christ the King Church, where she faithfully served as a Eucharistic Minister.

Above all, Donna cherished her family. She often said she had married the most wonderful man in the world and was deeply grateful for the children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild who filled her life with love and pride. Time spent together—whether around the dinner table, celebrating milestones, or simply sharing stories—meant everything to her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her stepmother, Marjorie Betts; her beloved husband, Philip; and her siblings, Robert Betts and Dorothy Bridgwater.

Donna leaves behind a loving family who will carry her memory forward: her children Gregory (Kathy) Bridgwater, Pamela (Victor) Naskrent, Philip W. (Colleen) Collins III, and Tierny (Kevin) Eson; her grandchildren Ashley (Ben) Timmons, Lindsay Whitten, Christopher Eson, Erin Collins, Kelsey (Ben) Adams, Michelle (Fredrick) Atencio, Zachary Michalik, and Mackenzie (Michael) Benson; her great-grandchildren Shaelynn, Mason, Jaxson, Alexa, Tiffany, Calvin and Layla; and her great-great-grandson Beckham.

Her legacy of kindness, generosity, faith, and love for family will live on in all who knew her. Though she is gone from our sight, her love will remain in our hearts forever.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 pm on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield.

Burial will follow at 1:00 pm at Camp Butler National Cemetery, 5063 Camp Butler Rd, Springfield, IL 62707.