With profound sadness and endless love, we announce the passing of our beautiful mother, Sophia Liz Gates.
Sophia was born on Dec. 22, 1972, in Walnut Creek, California, to David Michael Collins and Zora Collins.
Throughout Sophia’s life, she was admired for her cooking and singing. She even got to sing in a band with her father.
Sophia was the proudest mother of three beautiful children and she was an even prouder grandmother. Everyone knew how much Sophia loved her grandbabies — they were her absolute most pride and joy.
Sophia had a deep passion for music, which she got from her father. She also enjoyed fishing, and she was great at it. Sophia taught all three of her children everything they know about fishing. She was named “King Fisher Woman” by her family, and she was proud of that, as well.
Sophia was soft, kind and generous. She lived a life defined by love and compassion. Sophia believed in our savior and the power of prayer. Her voice, smile and presence will be missed.
Sophia passed away peacefully and surrounded by love on Monday, June 1.
Sophia is survived by her partner, Randy Gates; mother, Zora Stortzum; brothers, Troy Campbell, Jason Stroh and Ryan Spiers; daughters, Jackie Homan (Brandon Swensen) and Rachel Collings (Lance); son, Samuel Collins; and grandchildren, Rylee Swensen, Reese Swensen, Nichole Collings, Kayleigh Swensen, Xulan Swensen, Cyrus Collings and Xyan Swensen.
Preceding her in death is her father, Michael Collins; her brother, Cody Stroh; and many more family members and friends.
Services were held on Monday, June 8, at the Bridger Valley Baptist Church in Lyman.
Viewing was at 2 p.m., followed by the funeral at 4 p.m.
