Frances (Toots) Collins (née Alter)

With heavy hearts and deep sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of our beautiful, dearly loved, and cherished mother, Frances (Toots) Collins (née Alter) on June 11, 2025 at the age of 89.

Frances passed away at home, surrounded by her loving family, just as she lived — with grace, strength, and immense love.

Frances was the beloved wife and best friend of her late husband, Dr. Selwyn Collins, with whom she shared 60 wonderful years of marriage. As a mother, she was the embodiment of kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength — a source of boundless love and guidance to her children, Melissa (Roger) and Jonathan (Ashkan).

Frances was the cherished daughter of the Ed (z”l) and Sis (z”l) Alter.

Dear sister and sister in-law of Lloyd (z”l), Pearl (z”l) and Ronnee Alter of London, Ontario and Shirley and Sidney Allweis (z”l) of Manchester, England.  Caring aunt to nephews and nieces.

Her life was a testament to unwavering devotion and boundless love. Her family was her heart, and she found immeasurable joy in every moment spent with them. Through her quiet example, she gifted us many of her finest qualities — compassion, resilience, grace, and deep, enduring love.

We are eternally grateful for the compassionate care provided by her doctor of 50 years, Dr. Chung, her nurses, Mahnaz and Mahmood, and her selfless caregivers, Anamay and Pat in her final days.

Our Mom leaves behind a legacy of love and strength that will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Donations in her memory may be made to the Canadian Kidney Foundation 416-445-0373, or a charity of your choice.

Shiva visits Sunday, immediately after the service at 7300 Yonge St, Thornhill, Reception Room until 3:00 pm, and 7 to 9 pm with evening services at 7:30 pm.

Continuing Monday and Tuesday 2 to 4 pm,  and 7 to 9 pm, with evening services at 7:30 pm. Shiva will conclude Wednesday morning.