Dr. Jule A. Collins, 82, of Lafayette, passed away on Friday, August 19, 2022, at Franciscan Health East in Lafayette. She was born March 16, 1940, in Evansville, IN, to the late John V. and Mary “Clarice” (Jones) Collins. Jule graduated from Benjamin Bosse High School in Evansville and received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky. She then attended Indiana University where she received her Master’s degree and Purdue where she received her PhD in Education. Jule worked in Zoning Administration for City of Lafayette for over 40 years and retired in 2013. She was a member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church and was the driving force and founding member of the Matthew 25 Care and Share Soup Kitchen, which enhanced the quality of life for many in the community. Jule enjoyed traveling, golf, NASCAR, college basketball and was an avid fan of the University of Kentucky, Notre Dame and Purdue.
She was Commissioned a Kentucky Colonel in 1963 and was regular attendee of the Kentucky Derby. She was a supporter of the World Wildlife Foundation, ASPCA, Humane Society of the US and the Marine Corps Toys for Tots.
Jule is survived by 3 wonderful Cousins, David (Karen) Dill of Middletown, RI, Gretchen (Marc) Levine, of Concord, MA, and Peter (Leslie) Dill of The Woodlands, TX. And their beautiful extended families. Also surviving is her best Friend of over 42 years, Dianna Shoaf, her Bonus Family, Jackie (Brad) Becker, Denise (Byron) Orndorff, Stanley (Christine) Knight of Cape Coral, FL and many bonus nieces and nephews who she adored and accepted as her own. Her friendship circle and travel companions are immense, and she cherished them all. Their adventures were epic. She leaves behind her two faithful furry companions Sophie and Rocky.
Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd., with Rosary at 7:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, August 27, 2022, at St Ann Catholic Church in Lafayette. Interment will be at 1:00 pm Eastern time on Monday, August 29, 2022, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Evansville, IN. Memorial contributions may be made to Matthew 25 Share and Care or Natalie’s Second Chance Shelter in Jule’s memory.