Obituary of Frances Neily Collins

It is with great sadness that the family of Frances Neily Collins announces her passing on Wednesday, December 18, 2019 at the Saint John Regional Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Saint John on September 27, 1930, she was a daughter of the late Dr. Russell and Evelyn (Neily) Collins. In her younger years, Frances was a teacher and employment counselor. She was past president of the Kiwanis Clubs in Barrie, ON as well as in Saint John. She loved to travel throughout Canada, the US, Europe, and abroad. She was a published author of short stories, novels and plays and also loved all aspects of the theater. Frances was a very adventurous woman, a trait that her children inherited from her. She and her husband Paul had many projects that they worked on together and even built a stack-wall log home. Family was her greatest joy though, and she cherished the times spent with her great grandchildren, who affectionately referred to her as Gigi. Frances will be lovingly remembered by sons: Shane Parkhill (Barbara Mehrhof) of New York, Quin Parkhill (Yun-Fan Lee) of ON and Robert Clarke of ON; daughters: Shari Parkhill (Philip Charnock) of Florida, Valerie Clarke (Robert Thomas) of QC and Roseanne Clarke of ON; grandchildren: Aisha, Sébastien, Madison, Marguerite and Ryan; great grandchildren: Dominik, Nealah. Daysa and Adelyn; as well as several nieces, nephews and extended family. In addition to her parents, Frances was predeceased by her first husband: John Parkhill; son: Philip Clarke; sisters: Patricia MacDonald and Martha Schleit; and brother: Albert Collins. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424). A memorial service will be held later in the summer of 2020. Remembrances in Frances’ memory may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences can be placed at www.BrenansFH.com