Dr. Jeanne Cooke Collins, 89, left us on May 10, 2025, in Denver, Colorado. Born on March 14, 1936, in Ames, Iowa, Jeanne lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, dedication to scholarship, and a deep appreciation for history and community.

A lifelong learner and scholar, Jeanne pursued higher education with enthusiasm. She earned advanced degrees from the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. Her academic pursuits reflected her passion for knowledge and her commitment to excellence in all she undertook. Her teaching career spanned thirty years, covering a myriad of subjects within the English curriculum at Aurora Central High School. Jeanne was a life member of Delta Zeta sorority and The Willa Cather Foundation.

Her devotion to history and heritage earned her active memberships in several lineage societies. She was a dedicated member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Daughters of Founders and Patriots of America (DFPA), United States Daughters of 1812, Colonial Dames of the XVII Century, and Daughters of the Union. Through these organizations, she honored her ancestry while contributing meaningfully to civic engagement with an emphasis on Veterans assistance.

Jeanne's love for language and critical thinking found expression in many forms. She was an editor and writer who delighted in the intricacies of words and ideas. A Jeopardy enthusiast with a sharp mind and quick wit, she approached each day as an opportunity to learn something new. Her leisure time was filled with intellectual pursuits—she relished solving The New York Times Sunday crossword puzzles, playing card games, attending opera, ballet, and concerts, and participating in book and play readers clubs that enriched her social and cultural life.

She is survived by her daughter M Katharine (Katie) Collins.

Jeanne Cooke Collins will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to learning, her vibrant participation in community life, and the thoughtful way she engaged with the world around her. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St John's Episcopal Cathedral 1350 N Washington St. Committal in All Souls Walk immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Willa Cather Foundation , Humane Colorado (formerly Denver Dumb Friends League), The Colorado Wind Ensemble , The Denver Hospice or St John's Cathedral in her name.