Patricia Jean Collins passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.
Pattie Jean was born in Taunton, Massachusetts to William and Ellen Whitney, the fourth child of six. She graduated from East Providence High school, then studied banking and started a career at Old Stone Bank. She later married her best friend from high school, Edward Keenan, who soon after was tragically killed in a training accident while flying for the U.S. Navy in 1961. Pattie Jean moved back home. John Collins was the only squadron member from New England and he would deliver gifts from the squadron to the widow. Over time an unexpected romance blossomed. Patricia married John Collins in 1963. After the birth of their first child, they moved to his hometown, Concord, New Hampshire, where they raised 3 boys, Joseph Patrick II, John Christopher, and Thomas Edward.
Pattie Jean was considered by all the epitome of a Super Mom with a fierce spirit, a kind heart and a jester’s wit. She became a proud volunteer and board member at the Concord YMCA where she taught fitness classes for 15+ years and was an active member of the Junior Service League. She led by example with a credo: “You have to be a friend to have a friend.”
Nearing John’s retirement from TWA, John and Pattie Jean bought a boat and spent their winters on the west coast of Florida traveling near and far, summering back home on Bear Island. John lost a lengthy battle with cancer in 1992. After John died, PJ sold the boat and stayed in Fort Myers. Following her philanthropic roots, Pattie Jean became very active in charity groups and clubs, including Women with Spirit and the Gulf Harbor Bridge Club.
With her love for warm weather, Pattie Jean would return home to live on Bear Island in the summer. In her 60 years she spent on Bear Island, over 35 of them were as a Board Memeber of St. John’s On-The-Lake Chapel. In the face of much tragedy; losing two husbands, a son, and countless dogs, Pattie Jean always persevered.
“The sun comes up every day. It`s up to you what to do with it!”
– Pattie Jean Collins
Pattie Jean is survived by her sons Joseph and Christopher, daughter-in-law Christine; grandchildren Justin and Sophie; sisters Nancy Lee, Beverly Anne and Rose Mary.