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Obituary
Helen Jean Collins, born on November 20, 1942, in Hammond, Indiana, passed away on June 10, 2026, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, at the age of 83.
Helen was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, whose life was defined by caring for the people she loved. She was known for her strong will, playful sense of humor, and her charmingly particular nature.
Beyond her role as the matriarch of her family, Helen enjoyed being part of bowling and golf leagues, and in her younger years loved playing softball. Helen worked in food preparation for Sky Chefs and was also a proud member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, where she built many friendship throughout her years.
Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Collins; her daughter, Angela Collins; her grandson, Michael Collins; her parents, Ernest and Betty Brilinski; and her brother, Dave Brilinski.
She is survived by her loving children: Donna Collins, Eileen (James) DeLahaye, Sean Collins, and Joe (Tammy) Collins. Her legacy continues through her nine grandchildren: Kelly (Gary) Blanks, Chelsea (Ronnie) Pluszczynski, Megan (Chris) Brabaw, Jake (Kentice) DeLahaye, Samantha Collins, Shames (Crystal) DeLahaye, Cheyenne (Jack) Wright, Brittany Collins, and Brook (Kenneth) Sizeland, as well as her twelve great-grandchildren: Colleen, Julia, Emma, Kristin, Ethan, Lyla, Penelope, Wade, Athena, Leo, Amelia, and Liam. Helen is also survived by her sister, Norma Hulme, and her brother, Leonard Brilinski, along with many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish the love, laughter, and memories she gave them.
Helen will be remembered not only for the many roles she held, but for the love she poured into every one of them. She was the heart of her family, as a caregiver by nature, and a woman whose strength, humor, and selflessness shaped generations after her. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the love and lessons she gave will continue through all those who were fortunate to know her
A visitation will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Michigan Memorial Funeral Home from 2:00 to 8:00 pm. A service will take place on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Belleville, with instate beginning at 10:00 am and the service at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at Michigan Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Helen's name can be made to ALS of Michigan - Lou Gehrig's Disease by clicking the button to the left, or to the Alzheimer's Association Michigan Chapter, 25200 Telegraph Rd. #100, Southfield, MI 48033.
