Dorothy M. Collins

Dorothy Marie Collins “Aunt Dot” was born on February 9, 1939, in Harrington, Delaware to the late, Walter and Marie Messick. She lived 85 full years of life before passing on Saturday, June 29, 2024.

Throughout her hardworking years on this earth, she was able to bless the lives of many. Dorothy spent time working for the State of Delaware, W.T. Chipman in the cafeteria, Harrington Journal, Delaware State Fair, and the Harrington Raceway.

Dorothy was known for her love and passion for taking care of her family. On February 5, 1958, Dorothy and the late, Robert L. Collins, began their long marital journey. For the next 66 years, Dorothy and Robert built a life together that was defined by love, hard work, commitment and helping others.

Dorothy was known for her thoughtfulness, compassion, attention to detail and witty sense of humor. She was able to pass along endless memorable moments with her friends and family as a member of the Harrington Senior Center, Lifetime Member of Harrington Fire CO.,  Ladies Auxiliary, Harrington Moose Lodge and an Honorary Member of Burrsville Ruritan.

Some of her favorite pastimes would be to make flowers for her loved ones and their family, go on shopping trips with her sisters and family, attend any family members sporting events, scrapbook, cook for her loved ones and most importantly spend time with her family. Dorothy was a breath of fresh air and is remembered for her kindness and compassion towards others. Never meeting a stranger, she leaves this earth with many lives touched by her loving and youthful spirit.

She was proceeded in death by her son, Douglas Collins, daughter, Becky Brittingham and husband, Robert L. Collins.

She is survived by granddaughter, Erika Murphy and husband Zach, sisters, Mary Ann Wilson and husband Bob, Rhonda Schatzschneider and husband John; brother Jimmy Messick Sr. and wife Linda; many well-loved nieces and nephews and her great-granddaughter, Ava Murphy.

A Funeral Service for Dorothy will be on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at the Melvin Funeral Home, 15522 South DuPont Hwy, Harrington, at 1 PM, with a visitation for family and friends between the hours of 11 AM to 1 PM.  Burial will take place at the Hollywood Cemetery, Harrington.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Harrington Moose Lodge, 16268 S. DuPont Hwy, Harrington, DE 19952; and the Burrsville Ruritan, 10913 Knife Box Road, Denton, MD 21629.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home, please visit us at www.melvinfuneralhome.com to express or send condolences.