Miyoshi Collins

Dr. Miyoshi Umeki Collins was born on June 4, 1958 in Utica, NY to the late Roosevelt and Joan Collins. She was called home to rest April 25, 2020.

After the untimely passing of her mother, Miyoshi, her two sisters, and brother relocated to Utica, NY to live with their grandparents: The late Bertha and John Collins. She graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in 1977, and received her bachelor’s degree in journalism and broadcasting from SUNY Brockport. Miyoshi earned another bachelor’s degree in health service management from SUNY College of Technology at Utica-Rome. Afterwards, she became a licensed Nursing Home Administrator. In addition, Miyoshi has a master’s degree in Psychology, and was matriculated to earn her PhD in Psychology from Capella University. Her goal was to service the elderly community. She believed their quality of care was often overlooked.

Miyoshi worked tirelessly for a Social Services organization as a Senior Program Director/Trainer. She advocated for those who could not advocate for themselves. In her spare time, she was committed to working with families of domestic violence. She was always willing to give time and knowledge without limitation.

She is survived by four children: Shakisha (special friend Brian), Jonathan (Pia), Ryan (Akela and children), Danielle (Gregory); sister Roseann; sister-in-law Dana; 9 grandchildren, Jaden, Rehzon, Aazekiel, Xion, Naomi, Dawson, Xzavior, Kai, and Storm; 10 nieces and nephews, Darryl Jr. Desmond, Shavone, Jessica, Jessie, Samantha, Taylor, Janaye, Starr, Josh: 3 aunts, Tessie, Eleanor, Kelly, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. She also leaves to mourn special friends Kathleen (Walker/Garr family), Brenda (Fudge family), eldest cousins Dortha, Roy, Jimmie, and other close family and friends. Miyoshi loved to cook, travel to tourist destinations, and spend quality time with family. She was known by the family to always bring the collard greens, potato salad, and ham! She loved to dance, and enjoyed the company of her fur babies: Jackson, Tito, and Louie. She was the strongest woman ever and fought until her last breath! Miyoshi’s faith and love for community makes her the epitome of selflessness. She will be missed by many!

Additionally, Miyoshi was predeceased by her eldest siblings Angela Weather, Darryl Collins, and Aunts’ Gertrude Drake, Ada Favors, and Cleo Daniels.

Special thanks to the office of Dr. Shaikh and Dr. Ayaz of Utica NY, Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY, and St. Elizabeth and St. Luke’s Hospitals in Utica, NY.

The family would like to extend thanks to all who reached out during this difficult time. Repast will be delayed until health care restrictions are lifted.