Shirley Elaine Remington Collins

Shirley Remington Collins, a resident of Suffern, NY for over 75 years, passed away peacefully in her home on May 31, 2022 surrounded by family. Born in upstate New York to Max and Mabel Remington, she was the eldest of three siblings, which included her sister Helen and brother Max Jr.

She attended the State Teachers College at Oswego (now SUNY Oswego), graduating as valedictorian of her class. One of the achievements she was most proud of while there was her time as Editor-in-Chief of the college paper. After graduation, Shirley came to Suffern to start a long teaching career with the Ramapo School District. She began as a second-grade teacher and was later asked by the Superintendent of Schools to help implement the first federally-funded program to assist elementary-aged children struggling with reading and math. Resource development became her focus for the rest of her career.

Shirley’s initial life plan was to stay in Suffern for two years and then head out to sunny California. However, these plans were soon changed when, as she joking said,“I met a very good-looking Irishman.” This man, Charles Collins, was the love of her life and her husband of 37 years. Together they built a full and rich life and were the loving parents of five children. Shirley was always grateful that after retirement they were able to enjoy several wonderful trips together, including to Australia, where Charles had trained during World War II, and always wished to return.

Shirley is predeceased by her husband, her son Richard, daughter-in-law Jennifer, as well as her parents, sister and brother.

Cherishing her memory are her children and their spouses, Charles Jr. (Katherine), Constance, Rosemary Schultz ( Robert), Susan Brown (Timothy Sr.), ten grandchildren, Richard Jr., Meghan (Michael), Charles III, Timothy Jr., Tristan, Rebecca (Kenny), Patrick, Kevin, Matthew and Michaella as well as her three great-grandchildren Logan, Jaxton and Tanner, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Shirley was a long-time member of Sacred Heart Church Parish and the Suffern Woman’s Club. Shirley found great happiness in spending time with her family, being a big part of her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s lives, reading historical novels and the daily New York Times, and enjoying trips abroad and to the beach. She also found much solace in her garden and in listening to the beautiful sounds of nature, particularly in her final years. Her caring presence will be greatly missed.

A visitation for Shirley will be held Thursday, June 2, 2022 at 9:00 AM at Wanamaker & Carlough Funeral Home, 177 Route 59, Suffern, New York 10901. A Mass of Christian Burial will occur Thursday, June 2, 2022 at 10:30 AM at Sacred Heart Church, 129 Lafayette Ave, Suffern, NY. A private interment will occur Friday, June 3, 2022.

Contributions in Shirley’s memory may be made to Covenant House 460 W 41st Street New York, NY 10036 or to the charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wanamakercarlough.com for the Collins family.