News Summary
Constance Yvonne Anderson Collier, a cherished nurse and music lover, passed away at 76 surrounded by family. Known for her dedication to nursing and her community, she inspired many as a 33-year cancer survivor and devoted mother. Her contributions will be remembered fondly by those she touched throughout her life.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Constance Yvonne Anderson Collier, beloved nurse and music enthusiast, passed away on May 2, 2025, at the age of 76, surrounded by her loving family. Known fondly as “Connie,” she is remembered for her deep commitment to her family, career in nursing, and passion for music.
Born on March 17, 1949, Connie was the eldest of 11 siblings. She grew up in Pittsburgh, where she cultivated a strong appreciation for arts and music. Connie was also associated with an all-girl music group called The Shadelles during her younger years and maintained a deep love for legendary artists, including Marvin Gaye. Connie graduated from George Westinghouse High School and later attended the Pittsburgh Beauty Academy, where she began her career as a model.
Connie’s life was marked by her dedication not only to her artistic pursuits but also to her profession in nursing. She built a rewarding career at the U.S. Veterans Administration Hospital and the Doctors Hospital of Augusta, where she served until her retirement in 2011. Over her decades-long career, Connie touched the lives of countless patients and made significant contributions to the healthcare community.
Outside of her professional accomplishments, Connie was a devoted mother. She was married and raised two children, namely Anita Patrice Mayo Brechbiel and James Edward Mayo III, known as “Jamie.” In honor of her daughter Anita and her five grandchildren, Connie established the Anita P. Mayo & Kids Scholarship Fund, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to education and support for young people in her community.
Connie’s personal journey also included a noteworthy milestone as a 33-year cancer survivor. Her resilience and strength in the face of this challenge have inspired many around her. She is survived by seven siblings, seven grandchildren, including Paris, Jayla, and Jaden Mayo from Augusta, and one great-granddaughter, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by her family.
Connie had numerous friendships that enriched her life, notably with Grady and Evelena McFarland, Sheila Moore, and Timothy “TC” Cox. These friendships brought joy and companionship during her life, illustrating her extraordinary ability to connect with people.
Her funeral services were held on May 19, 2025, at Petra International Ministries in Pittsburgh, where she was an active member of the congregation, participating in the Intercessory Prayer team. Bishop Donald O. Clay officiated the service, which honored Connie’s vibrant spirit and contributions to her community.
In recognition of her life and accomplishments, Connie’s obituary was published online on May 22, 2025, in the Augusta Chronicle. Her life story reflects the essence of a woman who dedicated herself to her family, profession, and the joys she found in music and relationships.
Connie Collier’s remarkable legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all those she touched throughout her 76 years. Her contributions to her community, along with her love for her family and the arts, will be fondly remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her.
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Additional Resources
- Augusta Chronicle: Constance Yvonne Anderson Collier Obituary
- Wikipedia: Nursing
- Augusta Chronicle: Obituaries
- Google Search: Constance Yvonne Anderson Collier
- Augusta Chronicle: Community Contributions
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Music
- Augusta Chronicle: Funeral Services
- Google News: Community Health Care
