Laura Collins

Laura Ann Collins, 25, passed away July 10, 2011 at her home in Jefferson, MD with her family by her side.

Born April 12, 1986 in Frederick, she was the daughter of Todd and Donna Collins.

A 2004 Brunswick High School graduate, Laura went on to receive her undergraduate degree from Radford University in Virginia. She most recently attended Frostburg University where she graduated with honors, receiving her Master’s in Education.

In addition to her parents Laura is survived by her sister, Jessica Ann Collins, of West Chester, Pennsylvania, her paternal grandmother, Virginia Collins, of Bridgeville, Delaware, and her maternal grandmother, Ann Zlonkevicz, of Wilmington, Delaware. Laura is preceded in death by her grandfathers, Hugh T. Collins and Pete Zlonkevicz

In addition, Laura is survived by her godparents, Ray Collins of Georgetown, Delaware and Tim and Gretchen Collins of Fenwick Island, Delaware as well as her other aunts and uncles, Pete Zlonkevicz, Jr. of Albuquerque, New Mexico; David Zee of Ambler, Pennsylvania; Mark and Debbie Collins of Jacksonville, Florida; and Harvey and Kate Marvel of Milford, Delaware.

Laura’s many loving cousins include Jennifer and Ruth Garrett; Steve, Matt, and Brian Collins; Kat, Sarah, and Bridgette Casey; Meghan Grimm; Abbie Krechting; and Ryan and Josh Marvel. She is also remembered by many grandnieces and nephews.

While dealing with her disease, Laura prevailed to achieve her lifelong goal of teaching children, as she substituted at various elementary schools throughout the county and most recently taught kindergarten at the Saint Thomas Moore Academy.

Laura was a member of Brunswick High School’s Future Teachers of America, Radford University’s RUA Ambassadors, and Radford University’s Christian Youth Group. She was a ten year member of the St. John the Evangelist youth choir. Laura was also an avid long-distance runner, enjoyed her many friendships, and will most be remembered for her kind heart, her cheerful disposition, and her loving nature.

The family will receive friends at the Stauffer Funeral Home at 1621 Opossumtown Pike in Frederick on Thursday, July 14, 2011 from 4:00 to 8:00 and also at St. Joseph-on-Carrollton Manor, 5843 Manor Woods Rd., Frederick (near Buckesytown) on Friday, July 15, 2011 at 10:00. Father John Hynes will be the celebrant. Mass of Christian burial will follow at 11:30.

Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the St. Joseph- on-Carrollton Manor building fund, P.O. Box 33, Buckeystown ,MD 21703 or to the American Cancer Society 1393 Progress Way, Suite 908, Eldersburg, MD 21784.