Diana L. Collins, 69, a longtime resident of Juneau, Alaska has passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 21st, with her family nearby. She was enjoying a brief residency in Wichita, Kansas, from which she originally hailed, at the time of her passing. She persevered the last 13 years with pulmonary fibrosis by living life to the fullest with family, adventures, and simple pleasures.
Diana was never one to let adversity prevent her from finding enjoyment each and every day. She had big life goals that she conquered, which included having as big a family as she could, then going to college, having a career, and finally retirement. After having and raising her brood of five children, she went on to obtain her bachelor’s degree at the University of Alaska, achieved the position of IT Manager for Student Services at her alma mater, and finally reached retirement. She loved every opportunity to tell folks with gusto, “I’m retired!”.
A real family and community member at heart, Diana contributed in many ways like helping with tuitions, donating supplies, participating with arts/crafts fairs, and connecting those in need with public/student assistance options. She liked to help her family, friends, staff, and fellow students where she could and in ways that would benefit them the most. She believed that having peace of mind often led to success and wished she could give that to everyone.
Diana enjoyed having amazing road trips and a couple of destination vacations with her family this last decade. She also enjoyed technology, Nintendo, rock hounding, learning, and was a real fashionista who chose rhinestones and bling when given the choice.
A real inspiration for following your dreams and acknowledging your success in life, Diana will be sorely missed. She is preceded in death by her father, George F. DeLisse, whom she has dearly missed for nearly thirty years. She is survived by her loving husband Herman Collins Jr.; children Aimee Collins (Jess), Sarah Walters (Steve), Wendy Collins, Herman Collins III, and Terra Serpette (Rafe); 9 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren; her mother June Phillips; sisters Pam Rappard (Glenn), Paula DeLisse, and Donna Hansen; as well as 8 nieces and nephews and so many great-nieces/nephews, cousins, and second cousins. Rest in peace, our dearest Diana, until we meet again!
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.5