Jewell Beatrice Collins

Mrs. Jewel Beatrice Smith-Collins transitioned on January 20, 2025, at her residence in Augusta, Georgia. Jewel was born on August 24, 1923, to T.S. and Amanda Smith in Lacey, Arkansas. To their union, 12 children were born. She attended Lacey Elementary School and graduated from Lacey High School. 

 She accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mount Olive African Methodist Episcopal Church. She began her career as an elevator operator and retired as a secretary at the State of Arkansas Department of Education in Little Rock, Arkansas. She married Mr. Homer Lambert, and to their union were born five children (Jerry, Pasty, Betty Jean, Betty Jane, and Garry Lambert). Later, she married Wardell Collins, who preceded her in death. To their union one son was born, Reginald Collins. They lovingly helped raise their granddaughter, Sharhonda Collins.

 One of her greatest joys was baking her famous coconut cake and corn casserole, a treat loved by all who knew her. She was a daughter, sister, wife, cousin, friend, co-worker, aunt, sister-in-law, mother-in-law, neighbor, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother and mother. 

 She leaves to cherish her precious memories her children, Gary Lambert and Betty Jean (Louis) Coley; sister, Toni Handley; brother, Charlie Smith; 18-grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, 28 great-great grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members.