Valeda Collins

Valeda Collins, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, peacefully entered eternal rest on July 21, 2026, at the extraordinary age of 100. Born on May 21, 1926 to Joseph S. Johnson and Elizabeth Helen Johnson (nee Cowherd), Valeda lived a life defined by faith, love, resilience, and devotion to her family. Throughout her century of life, she witnessed remarkable changes in the world and left a legacy that will endure for years to come. A native of Dayton, OH, Valeda moved to San Diego, CA along with her husband Dell Ryan Collins (aka Bill) and her son Bari. She joined daughter Janyce, who was already living in San Diego and soon her mom (aka Mother, Nanny), oldest daughter Toni, then Bill’s children -- Martha Dell Hopper and Gary W. Collins relocated to San Diego. Valeda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill; her brother, Harlan Johnson; her sister, Janie Davis; her children of the heart (by marriage) Martha (Marty) and Gary, her parents, Joseph and Elizabeth Johnson, and her former husband Johnny Rucker. She is survived by her three children: Jean (Toni Rucker) Evans, Janyce Rucker, and Bari Rucker. She also leaves to cherish her memory seven grandchildren: Rochelle Lowe, Faith Daniels, Nicole Fernandez, Sonya Porter, Sabrina Brashers, Stephan McQueen, and Justin Rucker; 16 great-grandchildren; and more than 10 great-great-grandchildren, first cousins Theodosia Bryson and Mattie Smith (Indianapolis, Indiana), along with a host of extended family members (in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, and Tennessee), and dear life-long friends (Joan Forbes). Although our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we rejoice in a life well lived. Valeda’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, strength, and tenacity. She will be remembered through the generations by those she saw grow through the years and the countless lives she touched. Valeda was a member of Bethesda Temple in Dayton, Ohio (under Pastor Henry Jones), The Garden of Prayer in San Diego, California (under Pastor Andrew J.C. Cross), and lastly attended Grace Unlimited International Church (under Pastors Julian Lloyd and Quacy L. Smith) where she served many years as a greeter — smiling and welcoming all into The Father’s House here in time. She is now in The Father’s House in eternity. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23 May Mama, Granny, GG, Valeda rest in eternal peace, and may her memory forever be a blessing. The Johnson and Rucker Family appreciate your warm thoughts and effectual fervent prayers for the family of Valeda Collins.

Valeda Collins

May 21, 1926 - July 21, 2026