Veada Gatlin Collins, 79, graduated to her heavenly home on Wednesday, February 11, 2009, after a courageous battle against cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Veada was born in Logansport, LA on June 21, 1929, to David and Clara Gatlin. She was the oldest of thirteen children. She was lifelong member of the Compton Memorial COGIC and joined under the late Bishop Robert E. Woodard, Sr.. She worked tirelessly in the church and touched the lives of many. She was employed by John Sealy Hospital for many years and embraced her retirement joyfully.

Veada was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Debra Hill; sisters: Clara Hardway and Bernice Daniels; brother: Supt. David Gatlin, Jr.

Veada will live on in the hearts of family. Those left with precious memories, are a loving and devoted husband: Harvie “Bo” Collins of Galveston; seven children: James (LouAnn) of Baytown, TX; Clarence (Elizabeth) of Houston, TX; Winston (Beverly) of Philadelphia, PA; Van (Sondra) of Raleigh, NC; Ervin of Washington, DC; John (Sandra) of Dallas, TX, and Lisa (Frank) of Washington, DC; 19 grandchildren; six great grandchildren; five sisters: Josie Jacobs and Dorothy Destin both of Houston; Gloria Lewis of Detroit, MI; Alma Black and Joyce Washington both of Denver, CO; four brothers: Samuel Gatlin of Shreveport, LA; James Gatlin and Vernon Gatlin both of Houston; Earl Gatlin of Charlotte, NC; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Veada‘s life will be celebrated on Saturday, February 14, 2009, at 2:00 PM following a brief visitation beginning at 1 PM at the Avenue L Baptist Church . She will be laid to rest in Lakeview Cemetery.