Ms. Rose Alverna Collins

Rose Alverna Collins was born on August 18, 194 L to the union of Jannie and Felix Gibson in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She attended Friendship Missionary Baptist Church as a young child. Rose, affectionately known as "Bootsie", was educated within Milwaukee Public Schools. She attended 9th Street School, Lloyd Street, and completed high school at West Division High School. Rose continued her education in the nursing program at Milwaukee Area Technical College. At that time, she was the only African American woman in the program. She was instrumental in encouraging young African American women to enroll in the nursing program. For 43 years as a nurse, Rose worked at many hospitals and nursing facilities. She loved caring for others. Rose joined Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church in 1969, under the leadership of the late Rev. O.B. Sartin Sr. She continued her membership until her departure from this life under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Russell B. Williamson. She loved the Lord and shared this with everyone whom she encountered. Rose married James L. Collins on July 17, 1974. She was the mother of five children. She taught Sunday School for over 30 years. She also loved singing in the church choir, which she was a member of for 20 years. Whatever song was being sung; Rose had her own signature rock to it. She loved singing and praising God. Rose enjoyed festivities and traveling with her children and grandchildren. Those travels ranged from the back roads of Mississippi to Six Flags, State Fair outings, annual grandchildren outings, and Afro Fest, just to name a few. Another highlight of Rose's legacy is that she had the honorable duty of naming 12+ grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and bonus family members. Might we add that most of their names can be found in the Old and New Testament. Rose Alverna Collins departed this life on February 18, 2026. She was preceded in death by her: parents, Jannie and Felix Gibson; husband, James Collins; son, Robert (Robbie); brothers, William Gibson, Felix Gibson, and Cleophus Gibson; sisters, Thelma and Wilma; and her granddaughter, Khara. Those left to cherish her memory include her: daughters, Alicia/ Gail (Darrick), Cheryl, LaTasha (Dino), and Marla; son, Rodney Gibson; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, close friends, and many others who truly loved and cared for Rose.

Ms. Rose Alverna Collins

August 18, 1941 - February 18, 2026