News Summary
Pensacola, FL is mourning the loss of Mary Katherine ‘Mary Kay’ Collins, a beloved figure known for her dedication to family, faith, and community service. With a remarkable career as an adjunct professor and a commitment to various ministries, her impact on those around her will be cherished. The visitation and funeral details highlight the community’s support during this difficult time as they celebrate her legacy.
Pensacola, FL, Mourns the Loss of Mary Katherine “Mary Kay” Collins
Mary Katherine “Mary Kay” Collins, 86, of Pensacola, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, after a long illness. Known as a devoted woman of God, loving wife, and dedicated mother, her passing leaves a significant void in the lives of all who knew her.
Early Life and Education
Mary Kay was born as the first of seven children to Dick Herschede and Betty Strauss in Cincinnati, Ohio. She attended Mt. Notre Dame, a Catholic school, for 12 years, instilling in her a deep sense of faith and community. In 1957, her education continued at the College of New Rochelle, a Catholic women’s college established by the Ursuline Nuns. Although she initially intended to join the Ursuline Order as a nun, Mary Kay ultimately discerned that this path was not her calling and made the decision to leave the Order.
Family Life and Career
Following her education, Mary Kay moved to Starkville, Mississippi, where her family relocated as the Herschede Clock Company moved its headquarters. Transitioning from life in the North and the convent to college at Mississippi State University, she was actively engaged in sorority life with Chi Omega. In August 1962, Mary Kay became engaged to Tom Collins, just before he began his service in the Air Force; the couple married on December 27, 1962. Together, they welcomed four sons: Thomas, David, Patrick, and Kevin.
As Tom pursued a career as a USAF pilot, Mary Kay took on the role of primary caregiver, fully immersing herself in her children’s lives. Renowned for her homemade Halloween costumes and commitment to family events, she cooked for her family, including her famous weekly pizza dinners. As a devoted grandmother to eight grandchildren, Mary Kay prioritized attending their special occasions, creating cherished memories, especially during the family’s joyful Christmas celebrations.
Professional Accomplishments
While balancing family life, Mary Kay also ventured into the professional world. She became a Mary Kay consultant, honing her sales and management skills. Additionally, she managed a large furniture store in Pittsburgh and later earned an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Her career path led her to become an adjunct professor at a local SUNY University.
In a later move to Panama City for her job managing a furniture store, Mary Kay undertook training in Jackson, Mississippi, while Tom cared for their children. After Tom retired from the Air Force in the summer of 1984, he joined Mary Kay in Panama City. She managed the furniture store for five years, during which time the couple managed to enjoy two vacations together. Alongside her retail career, Mary Kay taught at Mosley High School and served as an adjunct professor at Gulf Coast Community College.
A Life of Faith and Community Service
In 2005, the couple built their dream home in the Riverside Neighborhood, designed to accommodate family gatherings, including a dining room table that could seat nearly 20 people. Mary Kay’s Catholic faith was a cornerstone of her life; she attended Mass daily and served as a Lector until her health no longer permitted it. She was deeply involved in various parish ministries, notably appreciating her role as a Hospice volunteer, earning “Volunteer of the Year” honors during her service.
Legacy of Happiness and Joy
As Mary Kay and Tom enjoyed their retirement years, they engaged in tailgating at Mississippi State Football games and visited historical sites across 49 of the 50 states. Known for her infectious smile, Mary Kay was committed to spreading happiness and positivity wherever she went.
Visitation and Funeral Information
Visitation for Mary Kay Collins will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, with a Rosary service scheduled for 6:30 PM. The Funeral Mass is set for 12:30 PM on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, also at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, with Fr. Tom Collins as celebrant. Interment will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery.
Mary Kay Collins’s legacy of dedication to her family, faith, and community will be fondly remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Mississippi High School Girls Basketball: Athlete of the Week Voting
Additional Resources
- News Herald Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Legacy: Mary Collins Obituary
- Google Search: Mary Katherine Collins
- Legacy: June Kersten Obituary
- Google Scholar: Mary Kay Collins
- Legacy: Kevin Fugate Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: Darlene Rhodes Obituary
- Google News: Mary Katherine Collins Obituary
- Legacy: Rosemary Mason Obituary
