Barbara A. Collins

Barbara A. Collins, 81, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 08, 2012 at Saratoga Hospital. Barbara was born in Dorchester to the late William and Catherine Palmer. She was very involved with the Women's Guilds at her daughters' schools, St. Brendan and Fontbonne Academy. Barbara loved spending summers relaxing on the beach in Cape Cod with her family. She was her daughters' cheerleader, instilling in them a belief that they could accomplish any goal they set. "Bubby" cherished her grandchildren. They eagerly awaited her extended visits to upstate New York, particularly delighting in their shopping expeditions and "movie nights."

In addition to her parents she is predeceased by her first husband, Lt. James Flaherty; her sisters Mildred and Joan, and her brother John. Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 51 years Gerard F. Collins; her children Deborah (Keith) Flaherty-Kizer and Colette Collins-Blackington; her six grandchildren, Colin, Hannah, Abigail, Caroline, Harrison and Samuel. She is also survived by her brother William Palmer and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10 am at St. Madeleine Sophie Church, 3500 Carman Rd., Schenectady. Calling hours will be Wednesday from 4 to 7 at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.newcomeralbany.com