Mary Collins

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Mary June (Gourley) Collins, age 86 of Galena, passed away at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, MO at 7:35 AM on Sunday, March 12, 2017 following a short illness.

Mary was born on August 12, 1930 to the union of Ira George Gourley and Eva Pauline (Ledford) Gourley. She had spent her entire life in Galena, KS.

She had worked as a seamstress at Elders Manufacturing and Miller’s Corporation, and had also worked at Wyatt’s Café and the Joplin School System, where she served as a baker and cook for 15 years. About 10 years ago, Mary retired but remained very active. In fact, she participated in a weight loss program called Tops, and even served as president of that club. She loved walking and exercising to promote her fitness and the well-being of others. She was a member of the Apostolic Faith Church of Galena, where she served as church secretary, Sunday school teacher, and other various roles throughout the church. She also participated in the Red-Hatters, and the Prestige Club through Freeman Hospital. In her free time, she loved to sew and crochet, and also collected Angel figurines.

Mary was united in marriage with Leslie Wayne Collins at a home in the Spring Grove Area of Galena, KS on August 18, 1948. He preceded her in death on December 16, 1987.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, Ira and Eva; one son, James Collins; and six siblings, Roy, Gleane, Keith, Virginia, Joe, and Jack.

Survivors include one daughter, Linda Jones (husband, Alfred) of Joplin; one sister, Peggy Bellamy (husband, Alva) of Galena; four grandchildren, Elizabeth Brock (husband, Mike), Patrick Jones (wife, Mary); Amber Collins, and Tim Collins; as well as 3 great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held at Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena at 2:00 PM on Friday, March 17, 2017. Pastor Clem Moore will officiate. Pallbearers will be Patrick Jones, Tim Collins, Mike Brock, Kenny Gourley, Bob Channel, and James Wolf, with honorary pallbearers Jacob “Cooter” Jones, Cadin Jones, and Leeland Collins.

The visitation will take place before the service beginning at 12:30 PM.

Memorial donations may be made to the Apostolic Faith Church of Galena in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.