Barbara L. Collins (Bobbie)

Barbara L. Collins (Bobbie) passed away on April 27, 2026, in Lakeland, Florida. She was born on September 29, 1929, in her parents’ home on 9th Street in Lakeland.

Bobbie was full of life during her childhood and teenage years. When her children were made aware of the youthful larks their mother and her friends embarked upon, they were not surprised, but amused. Bobbie was the homecoming queen in her sophomore year at Kathleen High School. Later in life she assured her children it wasn’t her beauty that won her that crown, “I had a lot of friends who voted for me,” she said.

Bobbie married John W. Collins, Jr., on December 31, 1951. They had known each other since their childhood. Per her mother Ellaree, a young Bobbie had prayed “Please do not let me marry “J.W.” Thankfully that prayer was not answered. However, as the years rolled by Bobbie was known as the prayer warrior in her family. Her children, grandchildren and their friends recognized the power of her prayers.

She was preceded in death by her spouse John W. Collins, Jr.; parents Lewis and Ellaree Roberts; her brother Allen Roberts and nephew Harold Roberts. She is survived by her son John W. Collins, III (Patricia); Daughters Faith Collins; Julie Collins Cornish (Roi), and former son in law Richard W. Parsons, II. Bobbie also has grandchildren she loved: Melissa Parsons (Jamie); Stephen Pearce (Dawn); John Collins IV (Kara); and Joseph Pearce (Ashly). Cherished great grandchildren: John Collins V; Brylan Pearce; Jensen Pearce; Maxton Pearce; and Colton Collins. Nieces Mary, Wanda, Sherry, Tracy, Christie, Sharon and Diane. Deep gratitude to caregivers Shari and Mary as well as the staff at Scott Lake Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Good Shepherd Hospice, Tammy, Gwen, and the Hospice Chaplin who encouraged Bobbie to “Give your fear to God.” A Celebration of Life will be held at Socrum Cemetery, 3125 West Socrum Loop Road, Lakeland, Florida, on November 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM.