Barbara A. Collier of Delmar

MARCH15, 1934-MARCH8, 2017

DELMAR>> Barbara Aurelia (Genge) Collier, born March 15, 1934, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 8, 2017, peacefully at her home in Delmar, N.Y.

Born and raised in Oneida, N.Y., she was a daughter of the late Alice and Jerden Genge, and the sister of Marilyn Edkin (Roger) and of the late Jerden Genge Jr. (Merna). Upon graduation from Oneida High School in 1951, Barbara attended The Powelson School of Business in Syracuse, N.Y. After graduation, she worked at Syracuse University, started her family, moved to California and then settled in the Capitol District.

Barbara was the beloved wife of the late John E. Collier. Having married in 1952, they enjoyed 56 years of marriage before his passing in December 2007. She was the loving mother of Donna Miner (Kenneth), Julie Fuino, Steven Collier (Allison) and Brian Collier (Laura); cherished grandmother of Brianne (Mark), Adam (Chelsea), Christopher, Michael, Matthew, Rachel, Abigail and Hannah; and dear greatgrandmother of Matthew, David, Noelle and Holden. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who were special to her. Barbara was also a faithful, lifelong member of the United Methodist Church.

Barbara will be remembered as eternally optimistic, incredibly caring, and always kind. She understood that “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Barbara was full of grace, faith, and compassion. In the years following the passing of John, she faced each day with courage. She strived to maintain her independence and quality of life. She was steadfastly devoted to her family. Barbara always made the people in her life feel worthwhile and loved.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours at Applebee Funeral Home at 403 Kenwood Ave. in Delmar on Sunday, March 12 from 2-5 p.m. A celebration of Barbara’s life and funeral service will be on Monday, March 13, starting at 11 a.m. at Applebee Funeral Home.

Those wishing to remember Barbara in a special way, please make donations to the American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900, Arlington, Va. 22202, diabetes.org

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