Elois C.

Collins

Elois C. Collins, affectionately known as “Lois,” passed away peacefully on November 5, 2026, at Mary Immaculate Hospital in Newport News, Virginia, at the age of 85, following several years of health challenges. Born on July 25, 1941, in Southampton County, Virginia, she was the daughter of Pendleton Cross and Nettie Copeland Cross. 

Elois attended Southampton High School and later earned her GED in Newport News during the 1990s, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning. She was an avid reader who found great pleasure in books and could often be found enjoying as many as four books in a single week. 

In 1961, Elois married Robert D. Collins, and from their union came three daughters. Although their marriage later ended in divorce in 1978, her love and devotion to her family remained an important part of her life. 

In 1976, Elois relocated to Newport News, Virginia, where she worked at Newport News Shipbuilding. She also served in the Newport News school system and opened her heart and home as a foster mother to Lily. Following the passing of her mother, Elois moved to Denver, Colorado, where she resided for 14 years and was a faithful member of True Light Baptist Church. During that time, she devoted several years to caring for geriatric patients living with Alzheimer's disease. Her work reflected a deep commitment to ensuring that those in her care were treated with dignity, compassion, and respect. She eventually retired from Croc's in 2011. 

Above all, Lois was deeply devoted to her family, with a special place in her heart for her grandchildren. She cherished her role as a grandmother and took great pride in the lives and accomplishments of her grandchildren. Family was important to her, and the bonds she shared with those she loved were an enduring part of who she was. Lois was also an impeccable cook, whose culinary talents brought family and friends together around the table. Her cooking was more than preparing a meal; it was another expression of her love, generosity, and care for those fortunate enough to enjoy it. Lois also possessed a legendary sense of humor. Her wit, laughter, and unmistakable personality could warm a room, bringing smiles and lighthearted moments wherever she went. Whether preparing a memorable meal, sharing a laugh, enjoying a good book, or spending time with family, she had a way of making an impression that would not easily be forgotten. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Robin B. Collins, and her mother, Nettie Cross Whitehead. 

Those left to cherish her memory are her two daughters, Manya Hicks of Hampton, Virginia, and Vickie Sykes (James Jr.) of Denver, CO; four grandchildren, Michael James of Denver, Colorado; Jonathan James of Baltimore, Maryland (MSU); James III “Jalen” (Cierra) of Essex, Maryland; and Bria Nicole (Ola) of Princeton, Texas; and two great-grandchildren, Kennedy Rose, age 10, and Andrew James, age 8. 

She is also remembered by her extended family, including her half-brother and sister, Rosalyn Spruill and Tim Spruill, both of Tampa, Florida. She was preceded in death by her half-siblings, Dickie Spruill and Mike Spruill. Her step-siblings include Calvin Thorpe of Suffolk, Virginia; Melvin Thorpe of Murfreesboro, North Carolina; Michael Cross of Williamsburg, VA; Barbara Cross and Kathy Seaborne of Newport News, VA. She was also preceded in death by her step-siblings Linda Perkinson, and Ron Cross. 

Though Elois has departed this life, the memories she created, the lives she touched, and the love she shared will remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Her devotion to family, especially her grandchildren, her legendary humor, and her ability to bring warmth and laughter into a room will forever be treasured. Her life was a journey marked by perseverance, compassion, family, and the simple joy of a good book. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.