Barbara Shields Collie

Barbara Shields Collie, 94, died on July 28, 2026 at her home with family by her side. Born August 11,1931 in Spring Garden, VA and a longtime resident of Keeling, VA, she was the daughter of the late Charles V. Shields and Myrtle Lester Shields. She married John Collie, Jr. on September 22, 1951, who predeceased her in 1999. Mrs. Collie was a graduate of Averett College, where she served on the Board of Associates, was recognized with the Mary Jo Davis Lifetime Service Award, and was a member of the Averett Society. With an early career in business administration, Mrs. Collie later became an integral part of her husband’s successful farm and farm equipment businesses. She was the last remaining charter member of Kentuck Presbyterian Church, where she faithfully served as an Elder, Clerk of Session, Treasurer, Sunday School teacher, and choir member. She also served as President, Historian, and Secretary of Presbyterian Women and was honored with a Lifetime Membership. Mrs. Collie was a member and former docent at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History. She was also a member of The Wednesday Club, the Danville Science Center, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. She was the first woman member and chair of the Pittsylvania County Electoral Board. She also served on the boards of Woodlawn Academy and Sutherlin Academy. Mrs. Collie was a devoted sports enthusiast who enjoyed following local, collegiate, and professional athletics. She was also proud to be an inaugural season ticket holder for the Danville Braves. Her life was a testament to faithful service and enduring commitment to her family, her church, and her community. She is survived by a son, John Charles Collie (Cheryl) of Sarasota, FL; daughter, Sarah Lanier Collie of Charlottesville, VA; and three grandchildren, Grace Maginnis (Sam) of Charlotte, NC; Ben Collie of Greenville, SC; and Emily Collie (Brenan Dimery) of Raleigh, NC. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, William Cobbs of Danville along with many beloved nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by sisters, Stanley S. Presto, Ryland S. Coggins, Whitney S. Cobbs, Judith S. Durham, brother, Jack F. Shields, foster brother Clarence Durham, a half-sister, Ruby S. Spencer, and a half-brother Charles V Shields Jr. A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 1, 2:00 P.M. at Kentuck Presbyterian Church with Pastor David R. Smith officiating. The family will receive friends at the Keeling residence. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to one of the following: Averett University Shields Sisters Scholarship; Dan River Region Community Foundation Barbara Shields Collie and John Collie, Jr. Scholarship; Kentuck Presbyterian Church; or a charity of your choice. Wrenn Yeatts North Main is respectfully serving the Collie family.

Barbara Shields Collie

August 11, 1931 - July 28, 2026