Donna Stone Collins

          Mrs. Donna Stone Collins, age 71 of Stuart, passed away Sunday, February 9, 2020, at the home of her daughter.  She was born in Martinsville on August 17, 1948, to the late Max Pate and Elsie Marie Rea Pate.  In addition to her parents, Mrs. Collins was preceded in death by two sons, Eric Stone and Christopher Stone; and a lifelong friend, Karen Gunter Lawson.  She was a member of Providence United Methodist Church.  She graduated from Hardin Reynolds Memorial School and received an Associate Degree from Patrick Henry Community College.  At the age of 51, she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Gardner Webb University.  She was an only child, but had lifelong friends that were as close as sisters and brothers.   She never met a stranger and had a smile and personality that would warm a room and make any situation better.  She loved to play Rook and travel to the beach and was a big fan of Wood Brothers Racing (Go #21!).   She always had good advice and words of wisdom, for example, “Act like a lady until the situation says otherwise, but when you have to tell someone off, still be a lady.”  She adored her family and they adored her. 

          Mrs. Collins is survived by her loving husband, Melvin F. Collins of the home; a daughter and son-in-law, Renae S. and Robert Lambert of Rocky Mount; a step-son, Chad N. Collins of Stuart; a step-daughter, Marcie Collins of Stuart; five grandchildren, Troy Lambert, Zachary Lambert, Jenna Lambert, Cameron Collins, and Eli Collins; an aunt, Shirley Rea of Stuart; cousins, Mike Ray of Bassett and Richard Ray of Salisbury, North Carolina; and many dear friends and family.

          A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 15, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. at Providence United Methodist Church with Pastor Keith Vernon officiating.  Burial will be private.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Providence United Methodist Church, 1021 Providence Drive, Patrick Springs, Virginia 24133.  Moody Funeral Home in Stuart is handling the arrangements, and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.