Alisa R. Collins

Life Reflections

Alisa “Lisa” Collins, 62, of Norfolk, Virginia, passed away on November 13, 2024, after her intense battle with mental illness and more recently cancer; she was surrounded by the love of her family and the grace of God. Our tears are not for her death, but for her life. Lisa spent most of her adult life battling schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.  Her life is the tragic narrative of the millions of loved ones and individuals who suffer with mental illness which must be told.

Alisa was born on August 18, 1962, to Patrica C. Glover in Mount Pleasant, New York. After Lisa graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1978, she went on to study Mass Communications at Norfolk State University until her illness prevented her from her studies.

Lisa was known for being strikingly beautiful and doing things her way. God reminded us through Lisa that true beauty is timeless for it comes from the fruit of our spirit and Lisa’s spirit was truly unique and beautiful. All her life Lisa was a fashionista, and she loved to shop. She was intelligent, fierce and kind. Lisa always wanted to work and be independent. One of her regular routines was to go to the library, get on the computer and look for jobs. Lisa also took pride in voting this year in the Presidential election. Up until the very end, Lisa had her mind set on what was important to her and made sure things got done.

Lisa grew up attending the House of Prayer church in Norfolk and she took the Lord with her wherever she went for, she was indeed covered by the blood of Jesus.

Lisa was predeceased by her loving grandparents, William and Queenie Collins; uncles, James, Charles and Russell Collins. She is survived by her faithful mother, Patricia Glover; her dedicated baby brother, Anago Collins; uncles, Rev. Dr. William Collins, Jr (Eleanor), Richard Collins, (JoAnn); aunt, Carolyn Williams; two nieces, Nicole Davenport, Monae Collins; two nephews, Quinton Davenport, Nico West whom she loved dearly; and a host of other cousins and friends.

The family would like to give special thanks to the loved ones who have been with Lisa throughout her journey, her special cousin, Gloria Hargett; best friends since childhood, Renee Bailey and Alma Richardson.

The Lord gives his hardest battles to his toughest soldiers and Lisa was by far an example of what it means to be a General for the Lord. She didn’t dance to the beat; she was the beat. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to any Mental Health Awareness Organization in your local community in Alisa’s name.

Lisa will be deeply missed but her beautiful smile and determined spirit will be a lasting memory in our hearts forever.