Barbara (Hale) Collins

Barbara (Hale) Collins, 97, of Rowley, passed away Sunday evening, January 3, 2016 at the Anna Jacques Hospital in Newburyport. She was the widow of Thomas P. Collins who passed away in 1999.

Barbara was born in Boston, December 2, 1918 to her late parents Ralph and Sadie (Smith) Hale.

She graduated in 1936 from Manning High School in Ipswich. During her working career she worked at Children’s Hospital in Boston as an assistant; at the Women’s Educational and Industrial Union in Boston as a Bookkeeper. Later in life she worked as a crossing guard for Pine Grove School, and for 26 years at the Rowley Public Library.

She was a member of the First Congregational Church in Rowley where she was a former Deaconess, served on many committees, and was a long time choir member. She was a member of the Rowley Historical Society and Council on Aging Bowling Club.

Among many interests, she loved the Boston Red Sox, her daily walks around town, puzzles, traveling, gardening, knitting, and spending time with family and friends.

Barbara is survived by her daughters Anne Murphy of Rowley, Jill Collins of Mashpee, son Tom Collins of Wareham, and daughter Lucy Collins, also of Mashpee. She leaves a brother, Edward Hale of Stoneham. She also leaves 9 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, many beloved nieces , nephews, and grand-pets.

Her Funeral Service will be held at the First Congregational Church, Main Street, Rowley at 11:00 AM on Friday, January 8, 2016. At her request, there will be no calling hours. Burial will be in Main Street Cemetery, Rowley.  Donations in Barbara's memory may be made to the First Congregational Church,  175 Main Street, Rowley,MA 01969 or to The Rowley Public Library, 141 Main Street, Rowley, MA, 01969.