Gayle Lynn Collins

Gayle Lynn Collins (née Olson), 64, amazing wife, mother, sister and daughter, passed away surrounded by family on January 21, 2023. Born on April 25, 1958 in Worland, Wyoming, Gayle was the oldest child of E. Bartlett Olson and E. Arlene (Robinson) Olson. A 1976 graduate of Central High School, Gayle had a 36 year career with the State of Wyoming Liquor Division.

 

In 1977, Gayle met the love of her life, Jim “JW” Collins. After an extended courtship, they married on November 5, 1983. They completed their family with the arrival of 2 daughters-Jamie and Morgan. Gayle dedicated her life to being an excellent wife and mother.

 

Gayle loved her people-friends, colleagues, neighbors and most of all family. Always an amazing cook, she delighted in feeding those she loved. She retired to care for her grandkids and enjoy Spook Hollow, the Collins family piece of paradise. A proud dog-mom, Gayle enjoyed relaxing with her pugs, Houston and Savannah.

 

More than anything else, Gayle loved adventure and new experiences with those she loved. In her bonus years, she took her grandkids to Disney, traversed the Irish countryside, explored the beaches in South Carolina, road tripped to Vegas and listened to all the live music. 

 

Gayle is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Jamie and Nick Gronski and Morgan and Bryan Holgate, four terrific grandkids who were the light of her life, siblings Shelley (Mark) Allen, Guy Olson and Mark Olson, mother Arlene Olson, a large extended family and all of her chosen family (friends) whom she adored. She was preceded in death by her husband of 37 years, Jim Collins, father Bart Olson and sister Karen Olson.

 

Arrangements are under the care of Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home.

 

If Gayle touched your life, please join us for a celebration of life on Friday, January 27 at 10am at Element Church (600 East Carlson Street, Suite 201). Gayle loved giving back to the causes that were important to her and those she loved. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Cheyenne Regional Medical Center Cancer Center or a charity of your choice. Her kindness, giving spirit and love for others will never be forgotten.