Mary Laveda Collins, 85, of Hector, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on March 25, 1941, in Nogo, Arkansas, Laveda lived a life centered on faith, family, and kindness. She had a gentle way, a generous heart, and a quiet strength that carried her through life’s joys and challenges. Her greatest joy came from spending time with those she loved, and she leaves behind a legacy of compassion, grace, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years, Dyke Collins; her parents, Ernest and Therma Sanders Rackley; her brothers, Lonnie Rackley and Roger Rackley; nephew, Jacky Hogan; and niece, Becky Aday.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Colene Langford (Rickey), Dorothy Sanders (Don), Rodney Collins, Mitchell Collins and Karen McCurrie; 9 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Myrna Vrooman; sisters-in-law, Elaine Rackley, Pauline Harmon, Gwen Collins, and Lucene Collins; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends who will cherish her memory always.

Graveside service and burial will be held 10:00 AM, Thursday, July 30, at Harrison Cemetery in Ben Hur under the direction of Lemley Funeral Service of Atkins. Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Wednesday, at Lemley Chapel in Atkins.

Pallbearers are Robert Langford, Johnathan Sanders, Chad Helton, Darin Collins, Nathan Collins, Leo Young, and Josh Garrigus.

Honorary pallbearers are Paul Branch, Joey Sessna, Tonona Stone, Teresa Bruhn, Vickey Haynes, Robert Woods and the former employees and POM.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of the Arkansas Heart Hospital, including Dr. Scott Beau, Patrick Stage, and Lisa Ivy, and to hospice nurses and staff including Harold Wheeler, Danni Jones, Kelsey Hirtler, and Sharon Lemmons.

Online obituary and condolences are available at www.lemleyfuneral.com.