Barbara A. Collins

Barbara A. Collins, age 72, of Eaton, OH passed away peacefully on January 21, 2013 at the Hospice of Dayton following a brief illness. Born on April 30, 1940, the daughter of Betty (Finchum) Kirk and George Kirk of West Elkton, Ohio, Barbara was a 1958 graduate of Shawnee High School and 1962 graduate from Miami University with a degree in teaching. Barbara was a dedicated teacher; she taught 10th grade English during her long career at Shawnee High School. Barbara was deeply committed to her community and friends, helping to establish Downtown Eaton, Inc., including the Eaton Farmer’s Market. Barbara served on the Preble County Library Board and was a member of Current Events Club and Alpha Garden Club. Barbara naturally had a positive influence around everyone around her. Barbara’s sassy style and respect for her students made her a memorable and beloved teacher. Barbara loved her family, her friends, a good laugh, a good book, and her well-tended garden. Her presence in our lives was truly a blessing. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents and sister Beverly. Barbara is survived by her husband, George A. Collins; daughter and son-in-law Anne (Dunlope) Hawk and Randall Hawk of Marengo, Ohio; daughter and son-in-law Susan (Dunlope) Masi and Umberto “Dino” Masi of New Rochelle, New York; beloved grandson Nathaniel Joseph Masi; brother and sister-in-law Steve Kirk and Holly Kirk of Phoenix, Arizona; brother-in-law Fritz Ruopp of Mary Esther, Florida; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral Services will be held at the Eaton First Presbyterian Church, 123 West Decatur Street in Eaton on Friday, January 25, 2013 at 11:00 am with Rev. Wayne D. Morrison officiating. Burial will be at Mound Hill Cemetery in Eaton, Ohio. The family will receive friends at the Eaton First Presbyterian Church in Eaton on Thursday, January 24, 2013 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Preble County District Library, 450 South Barron Street, Eaton, OH 45320. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gsbfuneralhome.com.