Bernice Collins

Bernice Murphy Collins was born on March 20, 1936, in Whiteville, Tennessee to Sham Murphy and Mattie Sue (Jarrett) Murphy.  On March 9, 2023, she departed this life peacefully with her children by her side.    

Bernice received her education in Whiteville Public Schools system and graduated from Tennessee State University with a degree in Elementary Education.  After graduation, she moved to Edwards Air Force Base, California.  On June 23, 1960, she was united in holy matrimony to Lee “Pete” Nathan Collins.  Unto this union was born two daughters: Chandra (Collins) Hightower and Chelsea (Collins) Crisp. 

Bernice worked in the Xenia Community Schools for 34 years teaching third and fourth grade students.  Retiring to enjoy spending time with her family traveling and maintaining her beautiful home.

Bernice accepted Christ at an early age.  Upon moving to Ohio, she and Pete united with Zion Baptist Church.  She was a faithful member.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Lee “Pete” Nathan Collins; her parents, two brothers, Leon Murphy and Michael Murphy, two sisters, Dorothy Willis and Earnestine Bowers and two sons-in-law, Gregory M. Crisp and Andre D. Hightower.  She leaves to cherish her memory, two daughters; Chandra and Chelsea of Dayton, Ohio and one granddaughter, Alexandria Lee Crisp of Dayton, Ohio, three sisters; Louise Taylor, Betty Bonwell, and Patricia Brown; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.  

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