Isabell Sturkie

Isabell Collins Sturkie, a beloved matriarch, lived a life filled with devotion, compassion, and a deep love for her family and faith. She was welcomed into this world on November 22, 1940, in Jacksonville, Alabama, by her loving parents, Willie Collins and Vadie Smith Williams. Along life's journey, Isabell met and married the love of her life, Lewis C. Sturkie, Sr. Together, they embraced their blended family with lots of love. While her husband worked, she managed her bustling household with grace and understanding while lovingly raising her large, blended family ensuring that each member felt loved and valued. She was not just a mother and grandmother to her own, but a nurturer to many. Known for her outspoken nature and encouraging spirit, Isabell shared her wisdom freely, guiding those around her in both good times and challenging ones. Isabell was a woman of many talents; she engaged in arts and crafts that reflected her creativity and passion for life. She found joy in creating and sharing her projects with loved ones. Her culinary skills were nothing short of legendary, especially her acclaimed apple turnovers that would have you coming back for more. Though she loved fishing, she always refused to bait her own hook! Isabell was a vibrant soul whose spirit was anchored firmly in the Lord, who she loved with all her heart. Her love for the Lord was evident in everything she did. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she found great joy in attending church services. In the morning of the first day of a new year at the age of 84, Isabell Sturkie started her new journey as she entered eternal rest. Upon gaining her heavenly wings, she was reunited with her husband, Lewis C. Sturkie, Sr.; parents, Willie Collins and Vadie Smith Williams; children, Ona Bethune, Rodney Sturkie, and Zenobia Curry; siblings, Ella Johnson, Katie Rhoden, Addie Peoples, Howard Collins, William Collins, Donald Collins, Thomas Collins, and Shirley Collins. Isabell leaves a legacy of love and memories to forever be cherished by her sons, John Williams, James (Sarah) Collins, Andre Collins, Wayne (Debra) Collins, Jason (Jodie) Collins, Dennis (Carla) Sturkie, Lewis (JoAnn) Sturkie, and Edward (Vikki) Sturkie; daughters, Lanora Beasley, Malinda Bell, Vaness (Charles) Patterson, Everlyn (Paul) Lewis, Shirley Jones, Alesia Cypress, and Tammy Nelson; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; brother, Larry Collins; sister, Harriet Wilson; and a host of other relatives and friends. As we gather to honor Isabell, let us remember her not just in sorrow, but in celebration-celebrating a life well-lived, a spirit unmatched, and the enduring legacy of love she leaves behind. Though Isabell has left this world, her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched.

Tributes

Isabell Sturkie

November 22, 1940 - January 1, 2025