Patsy Collins Nelms

PATSY JANE COLLINS NELMS

February 20, 1947 – August 10, 2023

Patsy Jane Collins Nelms, 76, of Castalia, passed away Thursday evening, August 10, 2023. She was the daughter of the late Saint John Collins and Theo Gertrude Collins Collins. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Richard Stewart Collins.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Donnie Nelms, daughter Hettie Faulkner and son in-law, Matt Faulkner; son Jonathan Nelms and daughter in-law Danielle Nelms; and her three grandchildren Anna Faulkner, Brantley Nelms, and Carly Nelms.
Patsy grew up on a farm in White Level.  She attended Edward Best High School and East Carolina University.  She married her high school sweetheart Donnie in 1969 and graduated from nursing school shortly after.  Patsy worked as a nurse for over 40 years, spending most of her career as a nursing instructor at Vance Granville Community College.  She remained in contact with many of her former students throughout her retirement.  

Patsy lived life to the fullest.  She was known for her green thumb, beautiful flowers, and was a wonderful cook.  She enjoyed playing golf with her Peachtree friends, who will miss her.  Patsy loved to entertain, and the “shack” was frequently visited by her many friends and family.  An excellent hostess, she wouldn’t mind at all if 20 people showed up for dinner.  Always stylish, we will remember her as a classy lady with a love for shoe and purse shopping.

The joy of Patsy’s life was her family.  She and Donnie were married for 53 years, and were best friends.  They loved taking random road trips with no destination in mind.  She was the best Mama to Hettie and Jonathan.  Growing up with Patsy as a mother was fun!  Patsy also loved her son-in-law Matt and daughter-in-law Danielle like her own.  Her favorite role was that of Granny to her grandchildren Anna, Brantley, and Carly.  She loved spoiling the kids as much as she loved telling everyone about them.  

Patsy will be missed by so many of her family and friends.  We are thankful for the wonderful memories we have of her.  We take comfort in the fact that we will one day see her again.  Per Patsy’s wishes, there will be no formal service or visitation.  

Arrangements are by Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, 103 W. Franklin St., Louisburg, NC 27549 www.stricklandfuneralhome.net

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