Obituary Condolences

Gladys "Glad" Dorothy Collins, poet and public speaker, passed away from complications following pneumonia on Feb. 1, 2018. She was 70. Gladys was well-known as the author of Title 1, Title 2 and Title 3 throughout the state of Oregon and all along the Pacific Northwest as well.

Glad was born Gladys Williams to Harold and Julie Williams on March 4, 1948 in Roseburg, Ore. Captivated by literature from a young age, she wrote poetry for her family and friends about her pets, nature, and the spiritual connection found in the northwest mountains and forests. One poem, titled "Savior in a Fierce Red Wagon," was written when she was 12 and given to Gareth Collins, whom she would eventually marry on July 21, 1973.

An academic by nature, Glad received a BA in English Literature and taught high school English at Roseburg High for 10 years before pursuing her MA and eventually her Ph.D in English. During that time, she raised four children: Lucas, Marie, Tabitha, and Rachel. In 1981, she began submitting poetry to journals and found acceptance in Ploughshares, Room and The Pacific Review. Her poetry touched the rough and tender alike with its clean imagery, rich sensory detail, and wry tone.

While Glad always called Roseburg home, she traveled often to read her work and speak to aspiring authors across the Pacific Northwest.

Glad is survived by her husband and four children, as well as 12 grandchildren. Private services will be held. Condolences can be made online at www.URL.com. Donations may be made in her name to the Poetry Society of America.

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