Maxine Cecilia Collins

Maxine Cecilia Collins peacefully transitioned from this world to be with the Lord on March 17, 2024. Born in Washington DC on December 6, 1939, to the late Jeanette and Leon Wiggins. She married Joseph B. Collins, Jr. in 1957 and they shared 67 years of marriage. Maxine was a loving mother to three daughters, Vanessa E. Collins, Maureen E. McDowell (Donald) and Sabrena E. Stokes. Additionally, the couple also accepted the responsibility of caring for their niece and grandson. In her younger years, Maxine found joy in sewing, roller skating, playing softball, and swimming. She attended school in Washington DC and later pursued her passion for fashion at Martha Washington School of Design. Known for her talent in sewing, Maxine enjoyed creating outfits for her family and friends, leaving a mark of creativity and care in their lives. Legend has it, she once crafted a stunning formal dress for the Marine Corps Ball out of the curtains in her living room. Maxine started her professional career as a social worker with Prince William County. As a social worker, Maxine was an advocate for the protection of children. This experience influenced her to pursue entrepreneurship and opened an in-home daycare. She also served in several management roles at local retailers like Zayre’s, Bradlees, and Wal-Mart where she made lifelong friends that became extended family. Maxine finished her career with Aramark Food Service, as the lead at the Fairfax County Detention Center supporting the deputy sheriff where she earned a reputation of always having a kind word, advice, and a genuine care for all regardless of status. After 17 years of service, Maxine retired in 2020. Maxine's magnetic spirit and love for card games was evident in her love for playing her favorite, po-ke-no, with friends and family weekly. She also enjoyed hosting family and friends to celebrate every occasion with Christmas being her favorite. Maxine would often document the memories with her video camera, capturing moments of her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews “dancing on the ceiling” or performing talent shows for the adults. Her zest for life and warm presence will be deeply missed by her many friends and loved ones. Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Jeanette Wiggins, siblings Barbara Jean Clay, twin Kathleen Moore, and brother Jesse Wiggins. Maxine's legacy lives on through her family, including her husband Joseph, their three daughters, niece Jennifer P. Clay, grandchildren Elliott (Eileen) Jackson, William Hagans Jr., Lauren Mackey, Ernest T. King, Paul Mackey, Marcus Hagans, Nicole (Kris) Cook, Britteny E. King, Alexander Mackey, Jonathan Butler, Maliq Stokes, great niece Tiffany Queen and great-grandchildren Aaron King, Alexandra Mackey, Donovan Jackson, Kyle Cook, Dominic Jackson, and Madison Hagan. The family will receive visitors at Miller Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 27th from 9:30 - 10:30, service starting at 10:30 and interment at Quantico National Cemetery at 12:30

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Maxine Cecilia Collins

December 6, 1939 - March 17, 2024