Elizabeth Collins

Elizabeth Lee Collins, 59, of Charlotte, NC, passed away on August 26, 2024. Born on July 12, 1965, in Havana, Cuba, she was a true beacon of light and love. She is preceded in death by her mother Georgina Muñoz and her brother Joseph William Borges. She is Survived by loving family members; Her sister Isis Hisgen, her Aunt Mercedes Proenza, Her cousin Jeranny Proenza, her cousin Michael Proenza, and his wife Mirtha Proenza, her Nephews Peter Proenze and Cesare Sandoval, her nieces Mercy Proenze and Lisette Hisgen, her brother Erick Salermo and her life partner Allen Gilbert.

Elizabeth moved with her Mom to Queens, NY as a child and spent her early years there until they moved to Miami Beach, FL. There Elizabeth cared for her mother until her passing. Elizabeth’s path eventually led her to Charlotte, NC

She graduated Cum Laude with her Bachelor of Education Degree from Belmont Abbey College in 2011 and was inducted into Delta Epsilon Sigma National Honor Society as well as Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society. This event delivered on a promise she had made to her mother.

Elizabeth was a devout Catholic and an active member of Saint Patrick's Cathedral in Charlotte, NC. Her faith deeply influenced her life and work, particularly through her online ministries, where she nurtured a community of nearly a million worshippers sharing prayers, hope and love. Elizabeth's commitment to her faith was evident in every aspect of her life. Her favorite Saint was Saint Francis.

Beyond her religious and educational endeavors, Elizabeth had a profound love for all living creatures. Known for her compassionate heart, she took joy in caring for animals, or critters, as she would call them. From her beloved cats and dog to feeding squirrels, and birds, and even hand-feeding the racoons in her neighborhood, Elizabeth would make sure they all had plenty of food and water.

Elizabeth enjoyed spending time with family. Whether it was the holidays or birthdays, she loved going out to restaurants and celebrating with others. Her favorite place to go was the Asian Buffet and she loved sushi. She enjoyed frequent vacations to the beach with Allen, where her happiest moments were spent sitting in a hot tub overlooking the ocean or feeding the Seagulls as they hovered over her head. She also enjoyed looking for seashells and she would see the beauty in every shell no matter how broken or chipped. Elizabeth loved music of all types. Most recently her favorite was gospel house music. On long road trips, however, her music of choice was always classic disco.

Elizabeth greeted each day with a big bright smile and thanked the Lord for another beautiful day. She loved to tell and hear jokes and her laugh was wonderful and infectious. She brought happiness and joy to everyone she encountered. It was not uncommon for Elizabeth to tell total strangers passing by, "Hello, I Love You, God Bless You!" This was her way. She welcomed all into her world and we are all better off to have been a part of that world. She will always be loved and remain forever in our hearts. Thank you Elizabeth.

Elizabeth's life will be honored with a visitation at McEwen Derita Chapel 6300 Mallard Creek Rd. 28262 Charlotte, NC. September 7th, 2024 1:00-3:00 Her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will remain a guiding light for all who knew her.