Ruth Ann Collins
August 5, 1949 – December 27, 2024

Ruth Ann Collins made her earthly transition to her heavenly home on the evening of December 27, 2024.

Ruth was born in Tahlequah, OK, to Leroy and Elsie (Wilmon) Johnson on August 5, 1949. She was the oldest of eight siblings: one sister and six brothers.

Ruth became a young mother to two children, Patsy and Billy. Later, she married her lifelong companion, Doyle, gaining another son, Grant. She was a faithful and devoted wife of 40 years to Doyle, and together they shared a love of family. She cherished her four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, lovingly calling them her "little darlins" — her absolute pride and joy.

When Ruth wasn't tending to her immediate family, she dedicated herself to helping others. Caregiving was her greatest gift. Ruth and Doyle's home was always open for anyone, whether for a visit or an extended stay. She was a beacon of encouragement and hope to those who were down on their luck. Ruth also shared a love of Elvis with her younger brother Terry.

She treasured hosting holiday gatherings and Sunday family dinners, creating cherished memories around her table. She loved baking with her grandbabies, collecting antiques and dolls, refurbishing furniture, quilting, attending estate sales, and celebrating her "little darlins'" sporting events and parties. Ruth was always present and thrilled to be invited.

Besides her warm hugs and signature lipstick kisses on the cheek, Ruth's most profound gift to her loved ones was her faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She openly shared her faith and credited the Lord for sustaining her through life's trials. When advised to slow down and take care of herself, she would firmly say, "Until God calls me home, I will keep going." Her family finds peace knowing she is now in her eternal resting place among streets of gold, free from pain, sorrow, sin, and shame.

Ruth is survived by her husband, Doyle Collins; her daughter, Patsy Averill of Tulsa, OK; and her son, Billy Lemon and his wife, Angel, of Sand Springs, OK. She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Amanda Briscoe and husband Josh of Sand Springs, OK; Levi Lemon and wife Samantha of Sand Springs, OK; Lacey Jacks and husband Sam of Tulsa, OK; and Taylor McClain and husband John of Sand Springs, OK. Her great-grandchildren include Dawsen Briscoe, Sawyer Briscoe, Gracelyn Lemon, Easton Lemon, Rylee Snapp, Olivia Jacks, Rowan McClain, Laken Lemon, and Coast Jacks.

She is also survived by her brothers: Leroy Jr. and wife Debra, Donnie, Chester, and Jerry Dean, along with cherished brothers- and sisters-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

Ruth is preceded in death by her son, Grant Collins; her parents, Leroy and Elsie Johnson; her sister, Eileen; and her brothers, Terry and Bobby Joe.

Services
Services for Ruth Ann will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Trinity Baptist Church, Sand Springs, OK, followed by a graveside burial at Woodland Memorial Park Cemetery, Sand Springs, OK. All are welcome to attend.

Pallbearers
Donnie Johnson, Leroy Johnson Jr., Chester Johnson, Jerry Johnson, Jason Johnson, and Donnie Johnson Jr.