Carmel — Phyllis Marie Tozier Collins, 81, passed from this life surrounded by her loved ones at home on October 25, 2017. She was born March 5, 1936 in Bangor, Maine, the daughter of Willis and Louise (Raynes-Hatch) Tozier.

Phyllis attended Bangor High School and married Reginald Collins on August 2, 1954 in Bangor. Together they had five children; Dianne, Baby Boy Collins, Reggie Jr., Cindy, Linda, and Jimmy.

Phyllis was heroic in her love and protection of her children while husband Reginald served our country as a member of the United States Air Force in faraway bases that spanned the globe. Her gentle and sweet spirit was in constant demonstration to her children and to all who knew her. One of her favorite sayings was “Live each day with a happy heart.”

She enjoyed antiquing with friends, often sharing the treasures she found with friends and family (especially her daughters and granddaughters). She also loved keeping up with the latest fashion trends, favoring lavenders and yellows, even creating her own clothing as an accomplished seamstress. She also loved adding pretty flowers and colorful decorations to all the rooms of her home. Phyllis also loved going for rides, especially to the coast, where she would enjoy a delicious lobster roll! Her smile and laugh would light up any room she was in, and she will be sorely missed by all of us.

Phyllis was predeceased by her parents Louise (1989) and Willis Tozier (1988); her infant brothers Gilbert Tozier (1941) and Willis Tozier, Jr. (1950); her sons Reginald Collins Jr. (2014) and Baby Boy Collins (1957); her Grandsons Nicholas Collins Maggiora (1978) and Gerald Klotz (2010).

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Reginald Collins of Carmel; three daughters and one son; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Her sisters: Elnora Doucette of Maryland; Anne Spinney of Florida; and Joyce Tozier of Sangerville. Her brothers: Arthur of Mariposa, California; Gordon of Chicago, Illinois; Charlie, Sheldon, and David of Bangor, Maine.

There will be a graveside service at the Corinthian Cemetery in Corinth, Maine on Monday, October 30, 2017 at 11:00am with Minister Steve of the Church of Christ presiding.

All of Phyllis’ family appreciate the loving care provided by the VNA Home Health Hospice team. Remembrances and condolences can be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.