Martha N. Collins

Martha N. Collins, age 85 of Rocky Mount passed away Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. She was born December 6, 1940 in Stigler, OK the daughter of a Baptist Minister, Thomas William Newton and Mildred Newton. Thomas guided churches and also conducted revivals in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas and California died in the pulpit on a Sunday night preparing for the next day’s sermon. Martha was also preceded in death by her brothers, Tom, Jr., Henry and Bill Newton; sister, Virginia Oliver and infant brother, Duane Newton. Martha graduated from High School in Smackover, Arkansas where she was elected a member of the homecoming queen’s court every year. Martha attended Ouachita Baptist College where she met Donald Lee Applegarth, they later married and had three sons. The family lived in numerous locations in Europe and the United States during Donald’s career with the United States Army. A longtime homemaker, Martha returned to work at the Defense Logistics Agency in Alexandria, Virginia where she met Edward D. Collins, Jr. (Jack) whom she married on January 1, 1984. Upon Jack’s retirement in 1991 the couple moved to Rocky Mount, VA where they joined and were active members of Rocky Mount United Methodist Church (RMUMC). Martha was very active in the church and for several years was president of the Rocky Mount United Methodist Women. A renowned “people person”, Martha was devoted to her friends, helping folks in need and spreading the gospel. Martha and Jack were married for 42 years and 14 days. Martha is survived by her beloved husband, Jack; sister-in-law, Rosa Ashley and family; sons, Donald Lee Applegarth, Gary Applegarth and Brad Applegarth; step-daughters, Lynne Collins Clark and Julie Collins McCutchen; step-son, Edward D. Collins III; and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her “family” at Rocky Mount YMCA, led by Marguerite Brown. A memorial service will be held at Rocky Mount United Methodist Church 11 a.m. Saturday, January 24, 2026 with a visitation 30 minutes prior and a reception immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.