Ethel L. Collins, 85, of Scarborough, Maine, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, unwavering dedication, and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Born on December 26, 1940, Ethel grew up in South Portland, Maine, the daughter of the late Robert I. Foshay and Lillian Hogland Foshay. In 1958, she married the love of her life, William A. Collins. The two shared a deeply devoted and happy marriage of 65 years until his passing, building a life centered around family, community, and joy.

In 1963, Ethel and Bill moved to Scarborough, where they built their own home in 1967 and raised their five children. Known to all as the "Collins Ranch," their home was a welcoming haven filled with laughter, friends, and endless fun. Whether it was the swimming pool, volleyball, horseshoes, pool, ping-pong, or lawn tractor races, Ethel and Bill ensured there was always a safe, happy place for their children and all of the neighborhood kids. A full parking lot at the Ranch was a daily testament to their hospitality and loving spirit.

Ethel was a familiar and beloved face throughout her community. In 1970, she joined the U.S. Postal Service as a rural letter carrier, delivering mail to thousands of hometown friends and neighbors. She took immense pride in her work, famously never missing a delivery regardless of the terrible weather or towering snowbanks she had to climb over. After retiring in 2000 following 30 years of dedicated service, she was still frequently reminded by community members how dearly she was missed, always remembered for her commitment and her bright, happy smile. Not one to slow down in retirement, Ethel happily worked part-time for many years alongside her husband Bill at the Dunstan Dental Center (Joe and Demi) in Scarborough.

Ethel was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Lillian; her beloved husband, William A. Collins Sr.; her son, William A. Collins Jr.; her daughter, Maryellen Collins Stevenson; her brother, Ernest Foshay; and her sister, Barbara Dillon.

She is survived by her loving children: Robert M. Collins, Laurie Hanson, and Don T. Collins. She also leaves behind many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as extended family members and countless friends who will miss her dearly.

Visiting hours will be held at Hobbs Funeral Home in Scarborough on October 30, 2026, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. A service celebrating Ethel’s life will follow immediately afterward.

Ethel’s radiant smile, fierce work ethic, and boundless hospitality touched the lives of everyone she met. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and the community she served and loved so well.