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Celebrating the life of

Lola (Viola) Muriel Collins

June 08, 1918 - March 04, 2016

Lola (Viola) Muriel Collins

Savannah- Lola (Viola) Muriel Collins, 97, passed away peacefully on March 4th 2016 at Candler Hospital, with family at her side. Lola was born in Australia in 1918. She married Edward Gaffney and gave birth to four children - James Patrick Gaffney, Sharyn Marie Pearl Gaffney, Marguerite Ellen Gaffney-Way, and Michael William Gaffney. Later, she moved to Savannah and married James Clifton Collins, giving birth to one daughter, Kathleen Mary Collins.

Lola’s accomplishments were vast and varied. She was employed by Levy’s Department Store, the Desoto Hilton, the Downtowner, the Savannah Inn and Country Club, and the Owens-Thomas House. In the 1980’s she served as head of the Mother’s March for the March of Dimes. As an entrepreneur, she opened Savannah’s first English tea room, its first fine lingerie shop, and served as proprietor of Jim Collins Bar after her husband’s death in 1989.

Surviving are her daughters, Kathleen, Sharyn and Marguerite – her sons, Jim and Michael – and her grandson, Christopher, along with his wife, Jessica.

Lola was an unforgettable Savannah treasure who touched many lives. She will be dearly missed.

Visitation- Wednesday March 9th, 5 to 7 pm at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.

Funeral service at the Hodgson Chapel of Fox & Weeks at 11 am Thursday, March 10th. Interment follows at Hillcrest Abbey.

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GUEST BOOK

May Jehovah, God, give you the needed strength to cope with the loss of your loved one as you await the promise found at Isaiah 65:17.

- Kelly, Pooler, Ga

Viola was my mother's half-sister, one of two aunts by my grandfather(Mick Dawson)I never got to meet. Valerie Patricia Dawson Bartlow(1927-2011) met her in 1936 but would have enjoyed knowing both Viola and Iris Dawson better, especially after Viola and Edward Gaffney settled in the U.S. after the war. She obviously had a long and interesting life.

- David E. Bartlow, Bend, OR

My husband and I did not know Viola personally. Viola was related to my husbands maternal side. Both Dennis and I have lost both our parents, especially our mothers in the past 6 years. People loved your mother. She was a blessing on earth. But she has touched hundreds of hearts on her way. May her soul rest in peace.

- Doreen & Dennis Hodges, Canberra, ACT

Kathleen, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Many happy and sweet memories of "Lola's lunchroom" at IPDS.

- Holly Gay Davis, Savannah, GA

Lola had 5 other granchildren and 2 great-grandchildren! To complete her obituary, here they are. Lola’s grandchildren are: Leticia Serena Sigel, Marshal Ryan Way, Marissa Nicole Way - all from Sacramento, CA also Justin Liam Gaffney from Trinidad, CA, and Irisa Marin Gaffney from Reno, NV Lola’s great grandchildren are Benjamin William Sigel and Oliver Nathanial Sigel from Sacramento, CA They love hearing stories about Grandmother Lola. We are sharing stories and old photos with all the kids so they won't forget her!

- Kaati Gaffney, Arcata, CA

Lola was my mother in law. She was sweet and wonderful person. She will be missed! Marshall

- Marshall Way , Sacramento, Ca

Sending condolences to Kathleen Christopher for the loss of her mother. & Christopher's grandmother Kathleen was Lola's caretaker through out her life. Our mother & Kathleen share a very long history. I know mom's passing will be a difficult time for her., as mom would say " buck up & carry on. Life continues & we all continue on without her . She really was a grand lady, simply born that way.. Kathleen we all send you love Jim Nancy, Sharyn Marguerite Marshall Leticia Jason Benjamin Oliver , Michael & Kaati Justin & Irisa all the people who love Lola We hope your life will start to get easier now that this chapter is over. Family left at the remains of the day.

- Gaffney, Sacramento , Ca

Sending condolences to Kathleen Christopher for the loss of her mother. & Christopher's grandmother Kathleen was Lola's caretaker through out her life. Our mother & Kathleen share a very long history. I know mom's passing will be a difficult time for her., as mom would say " buck up & carry on. Life continues & we all continue on without her . She really was a grand lady, simply born that way.. Kathleen we all send you love Jim Nancy, Sharyn Marguerite Marshall Leticia Jason Benjamin Oliver , Michael & Kaati Justin & Irisa all the people who love Lola We hope your life will start to get easier now that this chapter is over. Family left at the remains of the day.

- Gaffney, Sacramento , Ca

Lola was my grandmother. She was an incredible woman and her life and times were nothing short of amazing. I will always remember the time we spent together when I was young boy, the love and kindness that she exuded, and her invaluable teachings regarding the importance of tea and good manners. Love you, Grandma.

- Marshall Way, Sacramento, CA

Dear grand mom may you sail on brightly . I have fond memories of our time together when I was a young one. Love Marshall jr

- Grandson marshall, Sacramento, Ca

Dear Kathleen, I am with you in spirit. Please be comforted with the knowledge that you gave so much, allowing Lola to experience a life well lived, to the very end. Peace, Love, Light Jennifer Bowen

- Jennifer Bowen, Santa Monica, CA

Mother, I’m your oldest and life for you and me has been full of highs and lows. Thankfully the last 20 years have been high. I’m going to miss my trips to Savannah to see you. I’ll always remember my two sisters showing up and making a family affair out of going to Savannah, all good memories. These are memories I’m going to take into my future.

- Jim Gaffney, League City, Texas

Lola represented Savannah in a very positive and loving manner. On many of my visits, we would walk the Squares. I loved walking with her. She would be properly dressed with her long skirt, hat and, of course, jewelry. People would yell “hi Lola” from their cars. She literally would pull me across the streets to show me her beloved historic city. Lola was energetic and very proud in telling me about her many years in Savannah. Every corner had a story and an astute past and present observation. She taught me the word “gentrification.” Stars were in her eyes when we passed the Savannah and Weis Theaters that she had managed. She always had a “dear” and “darling” to express her points. Peace and love to my dearly departed mother-in-law.

- Nancy Gaffney, League City, Texas

Viola Muriel was married to my brother so was my sister-in-law to whom I'd like to convey my sympathy and prayers for her passing. She is survived by her children, her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren who will forever cherish her memory. Marguerite-Gaffney Smith

- Marguerite Gaffney Smith, Turnersville, N.J.

I'd like to post the expressed condolences from the Giuseppe DiMola Family and the Nedo Cassini Family who both met and hosted Viola when she visited Italy. They enjoyed her 'aplomb', her exquisite manners and, most of all - her brave, courageous spirit which she wore with extreme pride. They would like to be joined in adding their wishes for her eternal rest. Sharyn Perla - daughter

- Sharyn Gaffney, Sanremo Italy, Europe

Lola's daughter Marguerite is my mother and Lola was my grandmother. Some of my fondest memories of childhood are the long walks and hikes we would take together through the Carmel Highlands. Our time spent together always felt as though we were going on a big adventure. I remember many lovely afternoons spent together knitting and embroidering. When she would visit, no matter what she was doing, I always knew she would take a break to have afternoon tea. She had such a sweet and cheerful disposition; she was a pleasure to spend time with. She was a woman of great strength and fortitude, may the perpetual light shine upon her.

- Marissa Gaffney-Way, Fair Oaks, CA

Lola was my aunt. She was one of the strongest women that I ever knew. No matter was going on in her personal life, she always held her head up and kept a smile on her face. She was also a lot of fun to be around. I have fond memories of playing at her house with Kathleen as a child. She especially loved Christmas and riding around looking at all the lights. She was a person who would always show you her love, but wasn't afraid to tell you when you were wrong. To me, that is a truly caring person. I love you Aunt Lola. May you rest in peace with all your loved ones. You will be greatly missed.

- savannah, ga, 31404

Lola was my grandmother. I have fond memories of doing water Ballet in the pool with her. I have fun memories of doing her makeup for her every day of the European vacation to Italy my mother Marguerite took us on to visit my Aunt Sharyn back in the late 1980's What fun! She was a huge fan of a cup of tea and a grilled cheese sandwich and I am happy she turned me on to that comfort food combo. What a full life she lived. I wish she had been able to meet my two sons( her great grandchildren) Benjamin and Oliver Sigel. I will never forget the stories of grit and survival she shared with me. She is at rest now, nothing more to survive. She is at peace.

- Leticia Sigel, Fair Oaks, CA

Good bye Mother! Lola was a good friend to me when I came to Savannah, GA as a young woman. She showed me the beauty of Savannah: the parks, the beaches, the old-school way of doing things, helping me to enjoy my new surroundings instead of missing my home and family on the west coast. Over the years we have stayed in touch and I was always her "darling" and "sweetheart". I feel so blessed to have spent time with her last year during our family reunion. She is also survived by my two children (her grandchildren) Justin Gaffney and Irisa Marin Gaffney.

- Kaati Gaffney, Arcata, CA

Viola Muriel was my Mother. I am proud to have her blood coursing thru my veins. She was one of the strongest, Duracell type Survivors that I've ever known. She came from well-tempered Ancestors who will be proud of her final achievements. She now rests in Peace with her beautiful Scottish Mother! Ta Lola. Sharyn Pearl

- Sharyn Gaffney, Sanremo Italy, Europe

Lola was my mom, she was a woman of strength & kindness , she was loved by many & liked by all. She felt akin to Savannah, she loved the gentel southern houspality , the city was her American home. Lola enjoyed walking through the city squares and absorbing the long history of Savannah. I know the city will miss her presence. She was a very comfortable with the old traditions .tybee was another enjoyable spot mom like to spend time, walking on those beautiful beach was a highlight for her. She was a mother to 5 of us , she gave us the strength of a survivor , the will & determination to reach our goals and a deep appreciation of beauty. Lola was one of a kind. I salute her as she passed over, gone but never forgotten. Mom may you rest in deep peace. Blessings , I am with you in spirit. Daughter Marguerite Gaffney - Way.

- Marguerite gaffney--way, Sacramento California, Ca.

Lola was such a fine lady. I knew her well when she worked countless hours for the March of Dimes under my mom's leadership and later mine. She was a cornerstone of the organization. She always had a great attitude and smile on her face. No challenge was too hard for her. She was such a positive influence on me as a young lady. I will miss her dearly. Sharon McIntosh

- Sharon Wells McIntosh, Savannah, GA

Lola was such a fine lady. I knew her well when she worked countless hours for the March of Dimes under my mom's leadership and later mine. She was a cornerstone of the organization. She always had a great attitude and smile on her face. No challenge was too hard for her. She was such a positive influence on me as a young lady. I will miss her dearly. Sharon McIntosh

- Sharon Wells McIntosh, Savannah, GA

My sincere condolences to the Collins family on the death of Viola. May Jehovah God,the God of comfort grant you his peace. Please find comfort in the promise at Revelation 21:4( God will wipe out death, sickness, pain and sorrow Forever).

- ch, Lawrenceville, ga

May Jehovah, God, give you the needed strength to cope with the loss of your loved one as you await the promise found at Isaiah 65:17.

- Kelly, Pooler, Ga

Viola was my mother's half-sister, one of two aunts by my grandfather(Mick Dawson)I never got to meet. Valerie Patricia Dawson Bartlow(1927-2011) met her in 1936 but would have enjoyed knowing both Viola and Iris Dawson better, especially after Viola and Edward Gaffney settled in the U.S. after the war. She obviously had a long and interesting life.

- David E. Bartlow, Bend, OR

My husband and I did not know Viola personally. Viola was related to my husbands maternal side. Both Dennis and I have lost both our parents, especially our mothers in the past 6 years. People loved your mother. She was a blessing on earth. But she has touched hundreds of hearts on her way. May her soul rest in peace.

- Doreen & Dennis Hodges, Canberra, ACT

Kathleen, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Many happy and sweet memories of "Lola's lunchroom" at IPDS.

- Holly Gay Davis, Savannah, GA

Lola had 5 other granchildren and 2 great-grandchildren! To complete her obituary, here they are. Lola’s grandchildren are: Leticia Serena Sigel, Marshal Ryan Way, Marissa Nicole Way - all from Sacramento, CA also Justin Liam Gaffney from Trinidad, CA, and Irisa Marin Gaffney from Reno, NV Lola’s great grandchildren are Benjamin William Sigel and Oliver Nathanial Sigel from Sacramento, CA They love hearing stories about Grandmother Lola. We are sharing stories and old photos with all the kids so they won't forget her!

- Kaati Gaffney, Arcata, CA

Lola was my mother in law. She was sweet and wonderful person. She will be missed! Marshall

- Marshall Way , Sacramento, Ca

Sending condolences to Kathleen Christopher for the loss of her mother. & Christopher's grandmother Kathleen was Lola's caretaker through out her life. Our mother & Kathleen share a very long history. I know mom's passing will be a difficult time for her., as mom would say " buck up & carry on. Life continues & we all continue on without her . She really was a grand lady, simply born that way.. Kathleen we all send you love Jim Nancy, Sharyn Marguerite Marshall Leticia Jason Benjamin Oliver , Michael & Kaati Justin & Irisa all the people who love Lola We hope your life will start to get easier now that this chapter is over. Family left at the remains of the day.

- Gaffney, Sacramento , Ca

Sending condolences to Kathleen Christopher for the loss of her mother. & Christopher's grandmother Kathleen was Lola's caretaker through out her life. Our mother & Kathleen share a very long history. I know mom's passing will be a difficult time for her., as mom would say " buck up & carry on. Life continues & we all continue on without her . She really was a grand lady, simply born that way.. Kathleen we all send you love Jim Nancy, Sharyn Marguerite Marshall Leticia Jason Benjamin Oliver , Michael & Kaati Justin & Irisa all the people who love Lola We hope your life will start to get easier now that this chapter is over. Family left at the remains of the day.

- Gaffney, Sacramento , Ca

Lola was my grandmother. She was an incredible woman and her life and times were nothing short of amazing. I will always remember the time we spent together when I was young boy, the love and kindness that she exuded, and her invaluable teachings regarding the importance of tea and good manners. Love you, Grandma.

- Marshall Way, Sacramento, CA

Dear grand mom may you sail on brightly . I have fond memories of our time together when I was a young one. Love Marshall jr

- Grandson marshall, Sacramento, Ca

Dear Kathleen, I am with you in spirit. Please be comforted with the knowledge that you gave so much, allowing Lola to experience a life well lived, to the very end. Peace, Love, Light Jennifer Bowen

- Jennifer Bowen, Santa Monica, CA

Mother, I’m your oldest and life for you and me has been full of highs and lows. Thankfully the last 20 years have been high. I’m going to miss my trips to Savannah to see you. I’ll always remember my two sisters showing up and making a family affair out of going to Savannah, all good memories. These are memories I’m going to take into my future.

- Jim Gaffney, League City, Texas

Lola represented Savannah in a very positive and loving manner. On many of my visits, we would walk the Squares. I loved walking with her. She would be properly dressed with her long skirt, hat and, of course, jewelry. People would yell “hi Lola” from their cars. She literally would pull me across the streets to show me her beloved historic city. Lola was energetic and very proud in telling me about her many years in Savannah. Every corner had a story and an astute past and present observation. She taught me the word “gentrification.” Stars were in her eyes when we passed the Savannah and Weis Theaters that she had managed. She always had a “dear” and “darling” to express her points. Peace and love to my dearly departed mother-in-law.

- Nancy Gaffney, League City, Texas

Viola Muriel was married to my brother so was my sister-in-law to whom I'd like to convey my sympathy and prayers for her passing. She is survived by her children, her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren who will forever cherish her memory. Marguerite-Gaffney Smith

- Marguerite Gaffney Smith, Turnersville, N.J.

I'd like to post the expressed condolences from the Giuseppe DiMola Family and the Nedo Cassini Family who both met and hosted Viola when she visited Italy. They enjoyed her 'aplomb', her exquisite manners and, most of all - her brave, courageous spirit which she wore with extreme pride. They would like to be joined in adding their wishes for her eternal rest. Sharyn Perla - daughter

- Sharyn Gaffney, Sanremo Italy, Europe

Lola's daughter Marguerite is my mother and Lola was my grandmother. Some of my fondest memories of childhood are the long walks and hikes we would take together through the Carmel Highlands. Our time spent together always felt as though we were going on a big adventure. I remember many lovely afternoons spent together knitting and embroidering. When she would visit, no matter what she was doing, I always knew she would take a break to have afternoon tea. She had such a sweet and cheerful disposition; she was a pleasure to spend time with. She was a woman of great strength and fortitude, may the perpetual light shine upon her.

- Marissa Gaffney-Way, Fair Oaks, CA

Lola was my aunt. She was one of the strongest women that I ever knew. No matter was going on in her personal life, she always held her head up and kept a smile on her face. She was also a lot of fun to be around. I have fond memories of playing at her house with Kathleen as a child. She especially loved Christmas and riding around looking at all the lights. She was a person who would always show you her love, but wasn't afraid to tell you when you were wrong. To me, that is a truly caring person. I love you Aunt Lola. May you rest in peace with all your loved ones. You will be greatly missed.

- savannah, ga, 31404

Lola was my grandmother. I have fond memories of doing water Ballet in the pool with her. I have fun memories of doing her makeup for her every day of the European vacation to Italy my mother Marguerite took us on to visit my Aunt Sharyn back in the late 1980's What fun! She was a huge fan of a cup of tea and a grilled cheese sandwich and I am happy she turned me on to that comfort food combo. What a full life she lived. I wish she had been able to meet my two sons( her great grandchildren) Benjamin and Oliver Sigel. I will never forget the stories of grit and survival she shared with me. She is at rest now, nothing more to survive. She is at peace.

- Leticia Sigel, Fair Oaks, CA

Good bye Mother! Lola was a good friend to me when I came to Savannah, GA as a young woman. She showed me the beauty of Savannah: the parks, the beaches, the old-school way of doing things, helping me to enjoy my new surroundings instead of missing my home and family on the west coast. Over the years we have stayed in touch and I was always her "darling" and "sweetheart". I feel so blessed to have spent time with her last year during our family reunion. She is also survived by my two children (her grandchildren) Justin Gaffney and Irisa Marin Gaffney.

- Kaati Gaffney, Arcata, CA

Viola Muriel was my Mother. I am proud to have her blood coursing thru my veins. She was one of the strongest, Duracell type Survivors that I've ever known. She came from well-tempered Ancestors who will be proud of her final achievements. She now rests in Peace with her beautiful Scottish Mother! Ta Lola. Sharyn Pearl

- Sharyn Gaffney, Sanremo Italy, Europe

Lola was my mom, she was a woman of strength & kindness , she was loved by many & liked by all. She felt akin to Savannah, she loved the gentel southern houspality , the city was her American home. Lola enjoyed walking through the city squares and absorbing the long history of Savannah. I know the city will miss her presence. She was a very comfortable with the old traditions .tybee was another enjoyable spot mom like to spend time, walking on those beautiful beach was a highlight for her. She was a mother to 5 of us , she gave us the strength of a survivor , the will & determination to reach our goals and a deep appreciation of beauty. Lola was one of a kind. I salute her as she passed over, gone but never forgotten. Mom may you rest in deep peace. Blessings , I am with you in spirit. Daughter Marguerite Gaffney - Way.

- Marguerite gaffney--way, Sacramento California, Ca.

Lola was such a fine lady. I knew her well when she worked countless hours for the March of Dimes under my mom's leadership and later mine. She was a cornerstone of the organization. She always had a great attitude and smile on her face. No challenge was too hard for her. She was such a positive influence on me as a young lady. I will miss her dearly. Sharon McIntosh

- Sharon Wells McIntosh, Savannah, GA

Lola was such a fine lady. I knew her well when she worked countless hours for the March of Dimes under my mom's leadership and later mine. She was a cornerstone of the organization. She always had a great attitude and smile on her face. No challenge was too hard for her. She was such a positive influence on me as a young lady. I will miss her dearly. Sharon McIntosh

- Sharon Wells McIntosh, Savannah, GA

My sincere condolences to the Collins family on the death of Viola. May Jehovah God,the God of comfort grant you his peace. Please find comfort in the promise at Revelation 21:4( God will wipe out death, sickness, pain and sorrow Forever).

- ch, Lawrenceville, ga

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200