Audri Collins

Elder Audri Denise Collins was born May 7, 1957 to her parents Arthur Stokes and Surfnee Allen Stokes in Gary, IN. She was the third child born to this union. Affectionately known as Denny, she received Christ at the tender age of 15 under the ministry of the late Elder M.C. Bennett of The Open Door Church. Audri attended and graduated from West Side High School and later earned her cosmetology license from Odessa Beauty College in Gary, IN. After Beauty College, she went on to complete her phlebotomy licensing and she graduated from Chicago Medical School. Audri worked as a beautician for many years in Gary, IN. She also worked as a lab technician at Methodist Hospital in Gary for many years.

She met and married her high school sweetheart and former husband, Michael Collins. They were married for 25 years.

Later, Audri became a foster parent and she fostered over 20 children and has dedicated over 20 years of fostering services. She’s received countless awards such as the Leadership Award from Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service, she was a 4H Club Leader, she received the AmeriCorps Achievement award, United Christian Bible Institute Diploma in General Knowledge 1 & 2. She received a certificate of training in the spiritual care department of Methodist Hospital, INC, a certificate of Active Parenting and a Community and Faith Outreach Initiative, INC award. She was appointed Chaplain for Concord Village by the late Mayor Rudy Clay of Gary, IN.

Audri served faithfully under the leadership of Dr. Annie J. Aston as a nurse. Later, she was licensed and ordained as an Elder in the Lord’s Church by her son, Apostle Dennis T. Collins in 2011. Their ministry shifted to assisting Grace Baptist Church, where she was accepted as Elder and received with open arms under the leadership of Pastor Robert Johnson. Audri served faithfully as an associate minister. She was active and served with a smile.

Audri enjoyed her church family, spending time with her family, friends and loved ones. She loved outings and gatherings with her family and friends.

Audri will be missed dearly!
Audri Collins passed away Saturday, March 5, 2022 at Methodist Hospital in Gary, IN. She was

64. Audri is preceded in death by her parents Arthur Stokes, II and Surfnee Stokes.

She leaves to cherish her memories her children: Dennis (Danielle) Collins, Michael Collins, II, Ayana Collins, Aleina Collins, Ava and Aliyah Collins; siblings: Arthur Stokes, III, Terry and Jessica Stokes; former husband Michael Collins; grandchildren: Dennis, Nyla, A’Mya, D’Nyah, Mykia, Langston and Nia; Godchildren: Cara Adams, Catherine McCallister, Noah and Mariah; daughter in-love Candi Collins; best friends: Juanita Viaud, Surfnee, Tiffany, Stpehanie Milton and Jay; and a host of other relatives and friends.

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