Hattie Ruth Ward Collins age 98 of Galax, Virginia passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2024 in the Commonwealth Senior Living in Hillsville, Virginia.

Mrs. Collins was born in Galax, Virginia on December 14, 1925 to Joseph Kenley and Virginia Caroline Rosamond Higgins Ward. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Charles Pierce Collins and son Dennis Mahlon Collins.

She was recognized as a Rosie the Riveter for her work in Detroit at Republic Aircraft during WWII. She was a graduate of National Business College and worked at Oakland Elementary School as secretary/bookkeeper for 19 years. She was a devoted member of Oakland UMC serving as church secretary and member of the UMW.  She volunteered with the Backpack Buddies Program. She also enjoyed apple butter making with the church. In her 90's she assisted the FBI in the apprehension and conviction of criminals preying on the elderly.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law Clysta Collins Walters of Orange, Virginia;  Kali Collins  and Michael Pafford of Woodlawn, Virginia; Bonese Harris and Michael of Hiwassee, Virginia; sons and daughters-in-law Charles P. Collins II and Annette of Galax, Virginia; Terry Collins and Barbara of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; special friends Betty Jewel and W.A. Patton, Jr.; Pauline Robinson; Harold and Linda Cox.

The funeral service will be held Monday at 1:00 PM at the Oakland United Methodist Church with the Rev. Richard Gregory officiating. Burial will follow in the Oakland Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Vaughan-Guynn Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family respectfully request donations be made to either the Oakland United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund or the Alzheimer's Association.

The family would like to express a special thanks to the caring staff of Commonwealth Senior Living of Hillsville and the caring staff of Medi Hospice.