Former Fla. First Lady Mary Call Collins dead at 98
by Dara Kam | November 30th, 2009
Mary Call Darby Collins, the widow of one of Florida’s most beloved governors and the great granddaughter of another, died Sunday after a long illness. She was 98.
Collins was married for 59 years to the late Gov. LeRoy Collins, who led the state through the civil rights era. She was the daughter of Richard Keith Call who served two terms as governor before Florida became a state.
Collins lived in her ancestral home, “The Grove,” a historic residence adjacent to the governor’s mansion.
She gave the residence, built in the 1820s, to the state with the caveat that she could remain there until her death.
Tags: LeRoy Collins, Mary Call Collins, The Grove
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November 30th, 2009 at 1:55 pm
Mary Call Collins was a symbol of grace for all Floridians. She represents what is best in Florida – a sense of care for others, open hospitality, and a love for the rich history of our state which she lived all of her life.
The Grove where she and her husband, Governor LeRoy Collins, opened their lives to their fellow Floridians, will now become a treasured public place next to the Governors Mansion. These 10 acres bequeathed to the citizens of Florida for the enjoyment of future generations is a true indication of the selfless public service exemplified by Mary, her husband, and her wonderful family. We should all strive to use her role model as a beacon for the future. We loved her.