Notifications

No notifications
We will send an invite after you submit!

Bonnie's obituary

Bonita Kay Collins "Bonnie" was born August 24th, 1939 in Mishawaka, Indiana, to Burt and Eva Liggett. A WWII baby, she was raised with very strong familial ties that extended to close friends and neighbors. Her love of music, art, friends and family shined throughout her life. 

Bonnie started singing in church in her youth, then sang in her early adulthood in nightclubs. An accomplished musician, she also played piano by ear and sounded like a pro! Always ready to entertain she was an avid baker and cook. She would make anything deliciously from scratch for her guests. A creative through and through, Bonnie was an accomplished seamstress making everything from Barbie outfits, to drapes, to a beautiful wedding gown! If she set her heart to it there was no stopping her and anyone around her was all the better for her efforts. Her benevolence was shared freely and consistently. Smart as a whip and a truly giving, deeply caring soul, she was a treasure. Showing her adventurous side and great sense of humor, she'd occasionally do things like drive a friend's semi or ride a motorcycle on a whim!

Bonnie was married to Gene Collins for 19 yrs and they owned Haley's Motel on Anna Maria Island for 11 yrs, where her loving hospitality garnered many lifelong friends whom she treated like family. After her divorce she worked in Healthcare again (having done so for over 50 yrs total). She was always the one anyone could go to for kindness, understanding, and a meal in your belly. 

She was a faithful mother to her children, step son Bryon Collins, and daughter, Alicia Spaid (Josh). Doting grandmother to Allyson, David, Bryon Jr, James, Danyelle, and Max, as well as her great grandchildren Evan and Charlotte. All of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren meant the world to her, and her to them. 
Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, and her sister Barbara Robison (Wayne). She was a lovely light in this world and when she took her leave of it she had family by her side, Elvis singing gospel to her in her room, and her favorite chocolate cream pie, just as she had always wanted. She is missed so very dearly by her loved ones.

Print this obituary

Order a beautiful PDF you can print and save or share.

Want to stay updated?

Get notified when new photos, stories and other important updates are shared.
Flower

Send flowers

Share your sympathy. Send flowers from a local florist to Bonnie's family or funeral.
Helping hands

Add to her legacy

Please consider a donation to any cause of your choice.

Memories & condolences

Share your memories

Post a photo, tell a story, or leave your condolences.

Get grief support

Connect with others in a formal or informal capacity.
×

Stay in the loop

Bonita "Bonnie" Collins