UNION – Marion A. Collins, 79, died Saturday, Oct. 29, 2005, at her home after a brief illness. Born Sept. 20, 1926, in East Union, she was the third daughter of Allen H. and Bernice Gracie Young. She was educated in Union schools and graduated from Union High School, Class of 1945. In June of 1945, she married Dwight M. Collins Jr. During the early years of her career, she worked at the Sanitarium and the Hilcrest Poultry Plant in Union prior to gaining employment at Sylvania Electric Products in Waldoboro. She worked in many departments, retiring in 1986 as a supervisor. During 34 years employment, she enjoyed the once-a-month breakfast gatherings of her Sylvania family. Marion was active as a parent volunteer while her daughter, Linda, was attending Union High School. She continued in volunteer work at Shore Village and Knox Nursing Centers in Rockland and at Thompson Community Center, Union. As her two grandchildren became active in school in Jefferson and at Lincoln Academy, their “Big Gram” was often seen lending a hand in the concession stand or supporting their athletic interests. Carrying on in her parents’ footsteps, Marion became an active member of Pioneer Grange in East Union. Over the years she held many offices, including most recently, that of Lecturer. She and a couple friends were driving forces behind the Grange Suppers that were a summer highlight for many years. Her lemon meringue and custard pies were always sought after. Among her many interests, Marion enjoyed knitting, square dancing, bowling, gardening, and keeping her extensive lawn mowed. A die-hard Boston sports fan, she often had Bruins and Celtics games going simultaneously. She especially enjoyed family gatherings and hosted the Collins Family Reunion at her home for more than 20 years. Marion was predeceased by her husband, and a sister, Alfreda Grotton. She is survived by her daughter, Linda Billings and her husband, John, of Jefferson; two grandchildren, Holly Billings of Wiscasset, Jeb Billings of Scarborough; three sisters, Hazel Peabody and her husband, Neal, of Lincolnville, Helen Grotton and her husband, Wyman, of South China, Charlotte Young of Rockland, as well as several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1, at Oak Hill Cemetery, Hosmer Pond Road, Camden. The Rev. Laura Jenks will officiate. A gathering in celebration of her life will follow at the East Union Grange Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Kno-Wal-Lin Hospice, care of Northeast Health, 22 White St., Rockland, ME 04841 or to the Penobscot Bay Medical Center, Cancer Care Center, care of Northeast Health, 22 White St., Rockland, ME 04841 Service arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St., Rockland.
MARION A. COLLINS
