Gertrude Thomas Collins

Mrs. Gertrude Thomas Collins, age 83, of Ararat, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Surry Health and Rehabilitation. Mrs. Collins was born in Carroll County, Virginia on April 8, 1942, to the late Charlie Roe Thomas and Sarah Jane Ayers Thomas. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sibling and friend, who will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Mrs. Collins worked for many years in the finishing department at Kentucky Derby until her retirement. She was a faithful member of Mount Bethel Moravian Church, while her health permitted. Left to cherish her memories are her daughter, Dena Collins; sons and daughters-in-law, Jerry Wayne Collins and Laura, Michael Ray Collins and April; 10 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, Pat Smith and Robert; brother and sister-in-law, Clifton Thomas and Louise. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Collins was preceded in death by her loving husband, Bobby Ray Collins; sisters and brothers-in-law, Oma Gray and Glen, Alice Ayers and Bub; brother, Charlie Monroe Thomas. A celebration of Mrs. Collins life will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Moody Funeral Home in Mount Airy, with Pastor Bruce Ayers officiating. A burial will follow at Mount Bethel Moravian Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 9:30 AM until time of the service. Flowers will be accepted, or memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. The family wishes to thank the staff of Surry Community Health and Rehabilitation for the care and compassion shown during her sickness. Also, a special thanks to caregivers Jennifer Wilbur, Vanessa Somers, and Wanda Howlett. Moodys of Mount Airy is respectfully serving the Collins family.