Janet Collins Schab

Janet Collins Schab, 82, of Westerly, passed away from cancer on May 14, 2021. She was married to Heinz Schab for 24 years. Born in Goessel, Kansas on April 14, 1939, she was the daughter of Waldo and Esther (née Dick) Schmidt.

Janet taught English at Westerly High School for over 30 years. She earned a BA from Emporia State University in Kansas and two MAs from the University of Rhode Island. She and her husband were avid travelers, visiting such places as Austria, Greece, Italy, Egypt, Turkey, and China. Following her retirement she continued to pursue her professional interests by writing her memoirs (published in her book April in Kansas) and taking continuing education classes on a wide variety of topics. She loved reading, films, and spending time with her girlfriends. She was politically active, and campaigned enthusiastically for the candidates of her choice. She never lost touch with her Kansas roots, and traveled there regularly to reunite with family and her college roommates.

She leaves behind her husband Heinz Schab; three children by her first marriage to Billy Gene Collins—Michael Lee Collins, Billie Jean Collins, and Patricia Marie Collins; two stepchildren, Claudia Melinda Schab and Heinz Christian Schab; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a sister, Bonnie Miller.

A private celebration of her life was held at Janet’s home on May 14, 2021. Her remains were cremated.

In lieu of flowers, it was her wish that donations be made to the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum in Goessel Kansas.

Condolences may be sent to billiejeancollins@gmail.com.