Mary Collins,76, a longtime resident of Throop, Pa, passed away on September 13, 2024 after a brief illness.  During her final moments on earth, she was surrounded by her loving family until she was called home to begin her eternal rest in heaven.

Mary was born in Irvington, New Jersey on March 2, 1948, the daughter of Thomas and Louella Reilly.  Mary was a student of Irvington High School during her schooling years.  She was employed by Third National Bank and was co-owner of Stock Car Fanfare, a NASCAR themed store Tom and Mary operated in Throop prior to retirement.

She was an avid crocheter and jewelry-maker, and she shared skills with her daughters.  Mary was a phenomenal cook and baker.  She enjoyed making meals for her family and baking all kinds of wonderful treats for holidays and special occasions.  Her US flag cake was a legendary staple of every 4th of July barbecue.  When Mary wasn't feeding her family, she loved spending time with them on the front porch and tending her flower garden.  She loved animals and her house was never without pet dogs and cats.  Mary was faithful to our Lord, praying the Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy daily.

Mary was her children's and grandchildren's biggest fan and supporter.  She attended countless baseball and softball games, karate tournaments, music and dance recitals, go kart races, basketball games, community plays, award ceremonies, First Holy Communions, Confirmations, graduations, and she was even in the delivery room when one of her grandchildren was born.

God and family were the cornerstones of Mary's world.  Mary was a tough but fair woman who often thought of, prayed for and put others' needs before her own.  She lived her life in the loving shadow of God and Mary, the mother of Jesus.  Her faith in God was unwavering and it guided and carried her throughout life.

Mary loved the holidays because it meant decorating, but most importantly it meant spending meaning quality time with her family, Thanksgiving, Day, Christmas Day and Easter Sundays were the most special days of the year.  Mary never forgot a birthday or anniversary and reminded her children of these special days to ensure they were not missed by anyone.

Mary was a devoted wife to her husband Tom.  They were without question the love of each other's lives.  Mary and Tom spent 56 remarkable years together where they cared for each other, supported each other and loved each other with every piece of their hearts.

Mary leaves behind her husband Tom, her daughters Kelly Hopkins, husband (Dave), Kristen Kelley, husband (Doug), son Thomas Collins, wife (Khemmy) and grandchildren David Hopkins, wife (Leah), Kelsey Borys, husband (David), Thomas, Luke, and Autumn Collins, and Riley Kelley. Also, her sister, Diane Mooney and husband Len, brother Thomas Reilly, nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Blessed Sacrament Parish at St. Anthony's Church, 215 Rebecca St., Throop on Saturday September 28 at 10 a.m.  Friends may call from 9 to 10 a.m. at the church.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.