Brenda Lea (Arehart) Collins , 65, of Kokomo, Indiana (formerly of Elwood), passed away peacefully on the morning of April 14th, surrounded by family, after several courageous health battles. A woman of unshakeable faith, kindness, strength, and warmth, Brenda will be remembered for her humor, her belief in God, and her love and affection for others.

Born in 1961 in Elwood to Frank and Margaret Arehart, Brenda was a 1979 graduate of Elwood Community High School. She lived a life filled with creativity, love, and devotion to those closest to her. In her younger years, Brenda was previously employed at the Italian Village, Elwood Call-Leader, and St. Vincent Mercy Hospital, where she dedicated herself to serving her community with grace and compassion, while dedicating her life to being a loving mother to her two boys.

Brenda was a woman of many talents and passions. She found joy in creating beautiful paintings that reflected her artistic spirit, and she was a crocheter whose handmade creations were treasured by her family. She cherished quality time with her close circle of friends, enjoying spirited board and card games and laughter together, as well as attending the Elwood Central Wesleyan Church with her father and siblings. She enjoyed traveling and was able to visit and explore Africa, Asia, Europe and the Caribbean on several trips abroad. Gospel music was the soundtrack to her life—a source of comfort and inspiration that uplifted her soul. But perhaps her greatest joy was being a "Mimi" to her grandson, Jack, who was her pride and joy.

Brenda was a devoted mother who lived her life selflessly for her sons: Dustin L. Collins (Daniel Chaney) of Beijing, China, and Derek Collins of Shelbyville, Indiana. She is also survived by her grandson, Jack Collins of Richmond, Indiana; her father, Frank L. Arehart of Elwood; her sister and best friend, Rhonda (Rusty) Davis of Kokomo, Frank A. Arehart of Elwood; Scott (Melissa) Arehart of Westfield; and a host of nieces and nephews who will forever treasure the memories of their dear "Ninna."

Brenda was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Arehart, and her sisters, Jodi Arehart and Sheila Arehart.

A funeral service celebrating Brenda's life will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, April 20, 2026 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Pastor Mark Atkinson of Elwood Central Wesleyan Church officiating.  Burial will follow the service in Elwood City Cemetery.  A visitation for family and friends will be held from 2:00 to 6:00 pm on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Breast Cancer Foundation.  Online Condolences and memories may be shared with the Collin's family at copherfeslermay.com.