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Thursday, July 16, 2026
2:00 - 4:00 pm (Eastern time)
Suzanne E Collins (daughter of the late Alfred “Pat” Nelson and the late Adrienne “Gert” Ross) of Blackstone, MA and a former resident of Franklin, passed away peacefully of natural causes on Saturday, June 20, 2026.
Suzanne was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, aunt, dog-mom, and all-around source of sunshine. She was the loving wife and best friend of Walter J Collins, who preceded her in death. She is survived by 5 children: Raylene George and her partner Robert Malefant of Blackstone, MA; Susan Stocks of Foxboro, MA; Rhonda Smith and her husband Vernon of CA; Michael Collins and his wife Maria of Franklin, MA; Joseph Collins and his wife Jennifer of Blackstone, MA. Suzanne is also survived by 21 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and her pet beagle / roommate / confidante Sarah Noel. Suzanne was preceded in death by her brother David Nelson, her son Mark Collins, her daughter Stephanie Hogge, and 5 of her grandchildren.
Suzanne was forever complimented on her sparkly blue eyes and radiant smile… both of which always brightened when sharing times with her best friend Walter. Whether they were at parties with family and friends or just playing cards at the kitchen table, the time was cherished.
She treasured her relationships and time with dear friends and family… birthday parties, Yankee Swaps, watching the Patriots (at times placing bets with grandchildren for lunch), card games, recurring lunches with coworkers from her many years at Ben Franklin Bank, annual reunions with classmates from Kennett High, etc… and every life she touched was blessed by her beautiful spirit.
While it was always great to see her at any gathering or event, the ones on the lake in Freedom were extra special… she got such joy being there and building memories with others… bingo games, pina colada / bahama mama afternoons, long boat rides around the lake, late day ice cream runs, working her circle-a-word on the deck, catching up with neighbors over coffee, etc.
Suzanne knew how to live… and she did it with a loving heart… cheers to her, and to the resuming of card games at the kitchen table with Walter.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her calling hours Thursday July 16, in the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. from 2-4PM
Her funeral service and interment will be held privately.
Guestbook www.franklinfuneral.com
Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home & Cremation Service
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