Dee Collins

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Ollie Dee Collins, lovingly known as Dee, passed away on July 2, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 63 after a life filled with love, laughter, and plenty of spirited moments that those who knew her will never forget.

Born on May 9, 1963, in Neosho, Missouri, Dee came into the world ready to make an impression, and she kept right on doing that for the rest of her life. She had a way of walking into a room and making it feel a little warmer, a little brighter, and a whole lot more interesting. Dee was the kind of woman who could tell it like it was, laugh at herself, and still leave everyone around her feeling better than before. She was loving, kind, and spirited, which is a graceful way of saying she had a big heart, a quick smile, and just enough sass to keep life from getting too serious.

Dee worked at the McDonald Living Center in Anderson, Missouri, for 15 years, where her steady presence and caring nature made a lasting difference. She did her work with dedication and heart, and she was the kind of person people could count on without needing a long explanation or a second reminder. If something needed doing, Dee was there. If someone needed help, Dee was there. If someone needed a little truth served with a side of humor, Dee was probably already halfway through the sentence. Her coworkers and those she served knew her as someone dependable, compassionate, and strong, with a personality that could light up even the longest day.

Family was one of the great joys of Dee’s life, and she loved hers deeply. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Barbara Morriss Collins, and by her stepfather, Clint McCool. She is survived by her children, Barbara Greenhaw and her husband, Chad, of Pineville, Missouri, and Joe Sneed of Exter, Missouri. She is also survived by her sisters, JoAnn Ebberley and her husband, Gary, of Noel, Missouri, and Bonnie Ray Fair of Gentry, Arkansas. Dee leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Haley Right, Piper Greenhaw, and Chance Greenhaw, along with several nieces and nephews and a host of friends who will dearly miss her. Her family meant the world to her, and she showed that love in the many ways she cared, encouraged, teased, and supported the people closest to her.

When Dee was not busy caring for others or spending time with family, she enjoyed the simple pleasures that made life sweet. She loved fishing, horseback riding, singing, and leathering, and she especially treasured time with her children and grandchildren. Those who knew her well can probably imagine her enjoying a good day outdoors, singing along to a favorite tune, or telling a story with just the right amount of dramatic flair.

Though her family and friends will miss her dearly, they will also carry with them the many memories of her laughter, her love, and her unmistakable way of being herself. Dee leaves behind a legacy of devotion, resilience, and warmth. Her life was a blessing to those who knew her, and her memory will continue to bring comfort, smiles, and more than a few stories told with affection and a grin.

Funeral services for Dee will be held at the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Home on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 1:00 pm. Pastor Jamey Cope will officiate. Cremation will follow the service.