Leila Collier

Leila Mae Collier of Camp Springs, Md., peacefully entered into sunset on June 1, 2025, under Hospice care at Bradford Oaks Nursing Home in Clinton, MD.

She was born October 22, 1945 to the late Frank Purcell and Helen Amelia Hill, in Spokane, Washington. She attended colleges in Spokane and Albuquerque, New Mexico, majoring in Accounting.

To cherish her unwavering love and precious memory is her beloved and tenacious husband of 48 years, Harvey M Collier Sr; a surviving brother, Lew Purcell (Margaret); brother in law James Collier (Beulah); sisters in law Lillie Wellington (Thomas) and Gail Purcell; daughters Sharwyn Salter (Lawrence); Lisa Willis (Charles); Dee Martin (Mel); Tamara Collier (Richard Miller); son Harvey Martin Collier Jr (Mandy); and childhood friend Sherry Hopkins.

In addition to her parents, Leila was preceded in death by her brothers John Purcell, Sanford Purcell, Lowell Purcell; beloved sister Elizabeth Hopkins; mother in law Lillie Collier; sister in laws Catherine Holmes and Edna Purcell; brothers in law William H. Collier and wife Crispina, Theo (Bobby) Collier and wife Gwendolyn; and adored nephew Lew Purcell Jr .

She has numerous grandchildren: Shelby Martin and daughter Brianna, Shantelle Wood and sons Caleb and Kyle, Travis Martin (Natalie) and children Easton and Ruthie, Madison Werts, Harvey Mike Collier, Reagan Collier, Richard Miller Jr. and Rene Miller. She was known affectionally with great admiration as "Aunt Mae" by a host of nieces, nephews and great grands that were loved unconditionally by her.

She was a homemaker in the homes that she created and curated moving as a military wife. Leila was a proud Military Spouse, holding down the house and taking care of her family while her husband served our nation in various capacities, creating homes in Washington State, New Mexico, Illinois, Connecticut and finally Maryland. She lived in many other states as well, having a somewhat adventurous spirit, including Arizona, Texas, and one of her favorites being Montana.

Leila loved animals, having dogs, birds, a horse, but her favorite being cats. She was a very creative person and a problem solver often painting ceramics, sewing, cross stitch, making various crafts, crocheting and knitting. She enjoyed cartoons, cooking, baking, creating, coloring, driving, and some adventures. She was a constant presence in her family's lives as a Scout leader/volunteer, classroom mother, and creating a fun and safe environment where many of her children's friends visited often. She taught her children how to read, write, drive and embrace their creativity. One of her favorite sayings was "You can be anything!".

As a lifelong member of the Community of Christ (previously known as the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints), she instilled in her family the importance of knowing God and "being a good Christian". She always had a smile and hug for people, especially children; she was known to have a beautiful shining smile that went to her eyes and a bountiful laugh. She was known to tell the truth unabashedly and then give you a hug if you wanted. Her kindness and willingness to express her love is known by her children, grandchildren, family, friends, and anyone blessed with her presence. Her firecracker spirit was felt by many and will be missed. Rest now and be in pain no more.

A memorial will be held on June 20, 2025 at Lee Funeral Home in Clinton, MD. The family has selected donations to be sent in her honor to Outreach International: https://secure.outreach-international.org/site/Donation2?4588.donation=form1&df_id=4588&mfc_pref=T for those who are inclined.