Obituary of Christine McCrae
Christine McCrae Collins, 69, of North Plainfield, New Jersey, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at the Center for Hope Hospice in Scotch Plains on [date of passing]. Born in Newark, New Jersey, to Saint Elmer and Velma Collins, Christine was a beacon of strength, joy, and unwavering commitment throughout her life.
Christine spent her childhood in Plainfield, graduating from Plainfield High School before embarking on a remarkable three-decade career with General Motors. Starting in June 1976 in Linden, New Jersey, she became a proud member of the United Auto Workers Local 595. Her journey with GM took her to multiple locations, including Wilmington, Delaware, following the closure of the Linden Plant, and later to the Doraville Assembly Plant in Georgia. Known for her dedication and work ethic, Christine often volunteered for overtime and cherished her colleagues as though they were her own family—many of whom actually were.
After retiring in 2006, Christine continued to enjoy a vibrant life filled with passions and hobbies. She was deeply spiritual, having been a member of the First Baptist Church of Atlanta and later connecting with the First Baptist Church, New Market in Piscataway via livestream. A lover of music, Christine found joy in the melodies of Luther Vandross and spent many hours entertained by online games and word puzzles.
Christine's social nature was legendary; she was the heart of her family, actively participating in and enriching the lives of her loved ones. Her conversations were not just exchanges of words but threads that wove her family closer together.
Predeceased by her parents and siblings Elmer “Sugar” Collins Jr., Krystal Collins, George “Al” Collins, and Shirley Collins, Christine's legacy of love and laughter lives on through her sisters, Susan Collins and Jeannie Williams; her brother, Jesse Eric Collins; and a cherished circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd, Watchung, NJ 07069. A funeral service will commence at 10:30 AM at the same location, with interment to follow at Hillside Cemetery of Samptown, South Plainfield, NJ. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen fund in memory of Christine’s enduring spirit and generosity.
Christine McCrae Collins will be profoundly missed but forever remembered as a pillar of her community and a source of unconditional love and support. Her spirit, encapsulated in her laughter and her love, will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.
