Obituary of Erma Ann Collins

COLLINS, Erma Ann (nee Bingley), 84, Pictou, NS, passed away February 25, 2022, at home. Born in Pictou, she was a daughter of the late Harvey and Emma (Shea) Bingley. Erma met the love of her life Edwin ‘Ed’ Thomas Collins while they were members of the R.C.A.F. in Claresholm, Alberta. They married and were posted to Whitehorse, Yukon, where their oldest 3 children were born. After their careers in the Air Force, they moved to Saskatchewan for 5 years where their younger 2 children were born. In 1968 Erma, Ed and their family moved back to her hometown of Pictou. Erma worked most of her life continuing the Admin Clerk position she learned in the Air Force; from Roddams to Michelin and ownership of the store in Scotsburn; Erma believed in working hard and keeping busy. She was a mom, kept the house, was a fabulous cook and baker, sewed clothes and quilted, knitted sweaters, socks, mittens and baby clothes, rode and looked after horses, skied, golfed, bowled, and gardened. After retirement Erma and Ed enjoyed golf and travel. They especially loved spending time with their grandchildren who loved Granny's famous homemade pies, breads, and desserts. She was a staunch supporter of her family through thick and thin and had a quick wit. She volunteered with the Red Cross and supported the Diabetes Collection Program. Her last years were spent making quilted projects for the family, playing cards at home and at New Horizons 50 Plus Club, and spending time with friends and family. Gardening was a joy her whole life and in spring she looked for her crocuses and rockcress, later in life she loved her window boxes with her beautiful alyssum and geraniums; she had a very green thumb. Erma has always had pets but her “little darlings” Molly and Pita will truly miss her loving presence. Each of us will cherish her beautiful quilts, and projects that she sewed with love and gifted so freely. Erma is survived by her sons, Thomas, Vancouver Island; Robert, Pictou; John (Brenda), Pictou Island; and daughter, Donna (Stephen MacKenzie), Caribou Island; grandchildren, Stephanie MacDonald (Nick), Robyn MacDonald (Kris), Delaney Collins (Conar), and Allison Collins; step grandchildren, Nicole MacKenzie (Ryan), Myles MacKenzie, Amy MacKenzie (Ian) and Jesse MacKenzie (Meaghan) and Ashley Chisholm (Lee); great-grandchildren, Tatem and Maeve; and step-great-grandchildren, Hannah, Olyvia and Elora. Erma was predeceased by her beloved husband Edwin Thomas Collins; son, James Clayton Collins; and grandson, Coady Christopher MacDonald. Erma was also predeceased by her brothers Earl, Clair, Lyle, and Reginald Bingley; and sister, Debbie Bingley. Cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. A Public Graveside Service will be held 2:00 PM Sunday May 1st in St. James Cemetery. Special thanks to Jill Rafuse and Kyla Duplessis who cared for Mom daily and treated her with love and kindness, and ensured she passed peacefully; the Palliative Care Team at the Aberdeen Hospital especially Debbie Williams for her daily calls and visits; the VON who ensured she was able to stay at home until the end; Rev Mary-Beth Moriarity for her prayers and support; Dr Randy Burrill (who cared for Mom for many years) Dr. Kwasnick, Dr. Shephard and Dr Lum. Donations in her memory may be made to a charity of your choice. A Public Graveside Service will be held 2:00 PM Sunday May 1st in St. James Cemetery.