Mrs. Barbara Gripper Collins was born in High Point, NC, on November 1, 1938. She was the daughter of the late Shannon and Mahaley B. Gripper. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Anthony B. Gripper, Rebecca G. Brown, Lila G. Anderson, and Shannon Gripper, Jr.

Barbara graduated from William Penn High School and continued her education at North Carolina Central University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She began her career with The American Friends Service Committee and later retired from ASG Automated Service Group, Inc. as an Assistant Personnel Administrator.

She is cherished by her sister, Sareba G. Smith of Atlanta, GA; her brother, Dr. James K. Gripper (Janet); nephews, Shannon Gripper (Kelsey); Anthony Gripper (Deisa), Harold F. Smith, Jr., and Tyler Brown; nieces, Dr. Sheri S. Browniee (Fredrick), Etta S. Covington, Bridgette A. Lucas (Dee) and numerous great-niece, nephews, and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel. The family will receive friends at the chapel from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.