Legacy’s Centenarians: The Life Story of Pearl Collins

Pearl Collins was born into a farming family on December 24, 1916, in Valdosta, Georgia. Growing up in the countryside, her parents and siblings were her entire world. She completed all her K-12 education at Clyattville School. Pearl remembers attending church just once a month, as the minister rotated among different congregations. One of her earliest memories is singing in front of her church at the age of five, along with washing clothes on a rub board using homemade soap made from hog cracklings. She recalls taking castor oil when she was sick and the excitement of her family’s first radio. Among her cherished childhood gifts was a large doll that she adored.

At nearly 108 years old, Pearl reflects on her life and recalls her happiest memories revolving around her marriage to Henry Collins and the joy of raising their children. Pearl treasures her family deeply. Never expecting to live this long, she attributes her longevity to a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, having grown up eating from the land and never having much fondness for meat.

Ms. Pearl moved to Legacy with her daughter Bonnie in October 2019. Unfortunately, Bonnie passed away in October 2022. When asked about her favorite part of living at Legacy Village at Park Regency, Pearl says she loves the staff, the arts and crafts, and of course, Bingo!