Ida Ann Collins

Today, I participated online, from afar, in an unforgettably beautiful Farewell Service for Ida Ann Collins, held at Wesley Methodist Church, Belize City, Belize - the church of my childhood- a church of cherished memories dear to Ida and her beloved Belisle-Collins family.
Ida Ann Collins was a remarkable lady - humble, intellectually brilliant, musically gifted, deeply religious and compassionate, and a cherished friend. A true humanitarian, she was an extraordinary blessing to her family, the Methodist churches she faithfully served, her friends, and the wider Belizean community. Her gifts were many, but perhaps most remarkable were the grace and humility with which she shared them.
On behalf of my family, I extend heartfelt Sympathy, love and prayers to Ida's beloved sister- my dear Godsister Josephine, her husband Gilbert, and the entire family. May God sustain you with enduring comfort, and may the treasured memories of Ida's life, bring you strength and peace.
May we all be inspired by Ida's example, to recognize and cherish the gift of Humility, as we remember that true greatness is not measured solely by one's accomplishments, but also by the grace, kindness and humanity with which one touches the lives of others. May God grant Ida Ann Collins eternal Rest and Joy. Her Life was a blessing, her Legacy a gift, and her Memory a treasure.
"We come nearest to the great, when we are great in humility"
Rabindranath Tagore(1861-1941)

Ms. Ida, I remember sheltering at your house on Orange Street during hurricane Mitch and Keith. That is one good memory that came to my mind. Furthermore, the many piano lessons my father took me to at your house on King Street when Mother Collins was alive as a young boy. I truly appreciate you as my family and remember the fond memories. May your soul rest in peace and rise in glory. Play the piano with the angels now and rise in glory.

With condolences to your family. May your soul rest in peace.

Keith Westby

It is with a heavy heart that I send my sincere condolences to Mr. Gilbert and Mrs. Josephine Graham and family. Ida Ann and I go back a very long way. My name is Cynthia Stuart, and I am one of Harold and Gladys Stuart’s 7 children from Cleghorn Street, Belize.

Ida and I have been friends from the very first day we attended Wesley College. We were 2 of the fortunate 10 and 11year old, Standard 6, Primary School children throughout the Country, who were successful in the relevant ‘scholarship’ examinations and, were awarded Government scholarships that year.

Ida Ann was one of the Scholarship students who came from Wesley school, and I was one of 4 Scholarship students who came from Ebenezer Methodist School that year. We were made to be fully aware that to be awarded one of those scholarships would open the doors to one of the colleges in Belize, of your parents’ choice.

The first day we arrived at Wesley College, smartly dressed in our new uniforms, glancing around, making sure that our “Blue and Red Epaulettes” were the right way around, and carrying in our hands, our brand new: Revised Version, a 12”ruler, a geometry set, a fountain pen and a bottle of blue ink. We soon noticed that our ink bottles, had the same ‘name brand’. Instant friendship!! We began speaking to each other and, remained friends throughout our time at Wesley College and thereafter.
The students had an introductory talk by the Principal, the Reverend Caleb Watson Couzens. We were introduced to the Head Mistress Mrs. Hortence Matthews and the other members of the staff. These were the people who would guide us to becoming worthy adults. Motivational words which left all of us in no doubt that we were not there to waste time.

As time went by, Ida would invite me to her home, where we would sit on the ‘Big veranda’ and chat and laugh. A little while later, Mrs Margeret Collins, (Aunt Mag) Ida’s Mom, would send up a tray with a slice of cake, and a glass of lemonade for us!! Ida Ann came to our house a few times to play a few “nice proper” tunes on our piano. Our friendship continued throughout the years.

A few years ago, Ida Ann came to England, and I was able to invite her to stay with me and my family. We sat and chatted as usual, reminiscing and catching up on everything that has been happening. We talked about our little Belize; our country where we called every fizzy drink ‘lemonade’; Red lemonade; Orange lemonade; Ginger lemonade. Tea.. Milo tea, Ovaltine tea, and even Coffee tea!! Every so often, a member of the family would give a little knock and ask with envy, “Do you ladies ever stop chatting and laughing?”

Ida Ann was a very kind, gentle and compassionate person who would put ‘self’ last in order to help someone. I shall always remember her kindness when my Mother, Mrs.Gladys Stuart passed. As part of the arrangements for her funeral, we asked Ida Ann if she would be able to be the Organist at our Mother’s Funeral Service, “ Cynth, it would be an honour to do this for Miss Gladys, and the family.” Was her instant reply. I had to tell her that she should give me the answer later, after she had checked all her Church diaries and appointments.

Jo and family, I recently watched you, Ida Ann and your grandchildren stand tall, brave and strong at your Daughter and (my Goddaughter), Margaret Ann’s funeral Service. Resilience shone through. The members and the descendants of the Stuart Family who once resided on Cleghorn Street, Belize, are holding you all in their prayers and we are asking God to give you the strength to carry on.

As the poet once wrote, “a place is vacant in our home which never shall be filled.”

Rest in Peace, Ida Ann.

My condolences to Ms. Josephine & family. I remember Ida as a kind, friendly, gracious lady defined by good manners and etiquette. She always enquired about my daughter and children who live abroad and enjoyed looking at photos of the children and hearing and laughing at their latest 'antics' and achievements. I will miss our conversations. Rest In Peace my friend.

Ida and I were great friends from way back. I cajole her into being an accompanist for The Belize Choral Society whilst our resident accompanist was unwell.
She and I would go walks mf every morning for years at 5:30 in the morning
We were true Sagittarians lol
I never had a dinner party without Ida being there be it at my family home at Pound Yard Bridge or my own home..
We talked a lot about everything especially music.
Ida you were a ONE of a kind. I will miss you terribly,
Play on for the cherubs and seraphs!
Until we meet again Gone but never forgotten!!!
Val

It was wonderful to grow up listening to Ida Ann beautifully playing the piano every day as she was extremely talented. She was also, always very kind and gracious to everyone. We will always remember her fondly.

I will always remember Ida Ann as a sister Guide (and Queen's Guide) in 1st Wesley Guide Company, as well as a Wesley Church member and a Wesley College student. I send our love and condolences to Josephine and family. Ida has fought the good fight and will rest in peace. Pat (nee Crosby) & Kelsey Harris.

I met Ms. Collins a few years ago at the Senior Citizens Group ( Methodist). She was very kind, friendly and postive. Our friendship continued through phone calls. While convesing on the phone she would always assure me to trust in God and he will do the rest. I am happy that I met Ms. Collins and share some great memories of her.

I first met Sis. Ida, Miss Collins, as we knew her then, at Wesley College. Miss Collins taught Spanish to fourth, fifth, and sixth formers. Relative to some of her students, she was small in stature and gentle-spoken, but she was certainly capable of holding her own with anyone!

I later reconnected with her through the Church. Sister Ida served as organist at Ebenezer Methodist Church, and we at Trinity were blessed by her presence and music ministry every month on the First Lord’s Day.

She was always gentle, gracious and respectful, and deeply appreciative of every kindness and courtesy extended to her.

Sister Ida served faithfully and witnessed to God’s honour and glory for as long as she was able. I join with everyone in giving God thanks for the life and witness of our dear sister.

May she rest in peace and rise in glory.

Hasta luego, Hermana Ida. Los ángeles la esperan con mucho gusto.

Ms. Ida Ann Collins was not only my cousin, among other things, she was my tutor when Shakespearean literature seemed unbearable in high school and she captivated my interest by allowing me as a child to interact with her wonderful talking parrot. Her calm and gentle spirit was truly beautiful, and her presence brought a sense of peace to those around her.

In my youth, one of my fondest memories is of her visiting our home on Saturdays, when family would gather around for good food, laughter, and good company. She had a way of making those moments feel special simply by being there. I can still picture her laughing and enjoying the conversations, sharing in the warmth and joy of being surrounded by family.

Though she is no longer with us, the memories of her laughter, her kindness, and those cherished family gatherings will remain in our hearts.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Ida,my cousin was a true Belizean patriot.Thank you for always remembering our birthdays and waking us to your playing ‘Happy Birthday’ when we all lived on King St.
You are now playing the piano with the angels.
Rest in peace.

Dear Josephine. Oh my. Condolences. We get knocked down but our God picks us up and stands besides us!

Ida Ann Collins ! You are one of the kindest and most talented people I know especially at being an organist! But you were also my teacher until I left shortly after to move to the US!
You were the epitome of your mom who taught me at Wesley School!
It's only a couple of months ago you were in Florida and we had a wonderful three hour reminiscing conversation ! But you never told me you were ill!
I know you are headed straight to heaven ! You will always be a pleasant memory to me,
May you rest in peace in the arms of the lord !

Ms. Ida Ann was my God-sister. We were very close. She will be surely missed, as I used to always make sure I visited her whenever I'm in Belize. Sleep in Eternal Peace my God-sister.

It was a pleasure, and an exceptional teachng of our family's history by Ms. Ida Ann, at a Family Lunceon in her honor at the Midtown Restaurant 3/24/26. We were Blessed and Graced by her cherished memories, and the time she gave in answering our questions. Also present was our sister Gilda Middleton.

Childhood memories bring us to a time when on Sundays, after attending Wesley Methodist Church, the younger siblings had to go to Aunt Mags (A.K.A Maggy Collins) home, (Mother of Ms Ida Ann}. She questioned us on the Message of the day in Church, after which we got to play the piano. That was where Ms. Ida Ann would be on the piano playing also. The reward would be lemonade and cake, before we go home.

"Our Sincere Condolences is sent out to the Family"
and "May her Soul Rest in Eternal Peace"

I met Aunt Ida through my best friend and chosen sister, Amber. From the moment I met her, I felt her warmth and kindness. Aunt Ida once traveled with me to Tallahassee, Florida, because she wanted to visit the College of Music at my alma mater, Florida State University. I will always remember that trip, along with her musical talent and her endless thirst for knowledge.

I send my deepest condolences to Grandma Josephine, Grandpa Gilbert, Amber, & Kofi.

May Aunt Ida rest in heavenly peace.

In Loving Memory of a Cherished Friend and Musician: Ms. Ida Ann Collins

It is with a heavy heart and a deeply thankful spirit that I remember my dear friend, Ms. Ida Ann Collins. Rest in peace and rise in glory, my friend. 🌸✨

I will always treasure the time we spent together. I used to visit Ms. Ida to help her navigate her cell phone—teaching her how to use WhatsApp and Zoom so she could stay connected. But as anyone who knew her knows, a visit with Ms. Ida was never just a technical check-in; it was a joy. We shared wonderful, deep conversations both in person and over the phone. She often told me how much she enjoyed our talks because we could connect on so many levels, and I truly felt the same way. She was an absolute pleasure to be around.

My last visit with her was in August 2026. We sat and talked for over an hour, and before leaving, I asked if she would play a few pieces for me on the piano so I could record her music. With her gentle grace, she consented and played two beautiful pieces.

At first, she was a bit reluctant about sharing the recordings publicly. But I said to her, "Ms. Ida, you are a great pianist. Years from now, people might search for your music, and they should be able to find it." She smiled and replied, "In that case, I agree for you to post it wherever you wish."
After I edited the first video and sent it to her, she was so impressed.

She even texted me with exciting plans for us to record more music together—ideas to help congregations that didn't have an organist during service. Although her health began to decline shortly after and we couldn't record more, I am beyond grateful to God that we captured those two special pieces.
I have shared her beautiful playing on her Facebook page and on my YouTube channel (Miss C. Inspiration), and I am currently working on bringing both pieces together into a special combined video honoring her.

Ms. Ida was a gift to everyone who heard her play and to everyone fortunate enough to call her a friend. Her music, her warmth, and her legacy will remain with us always.

Fly high with the angels, Ms. Ida. You will be forever missed and deeply remembered. 🕊️🎹🎶
Hermelinda Hylton

When I was young girl learning the violin, I was extremely shy and found it difficult to speak to adults. Ms. Ida Ann was my piano accompanist for many ABRSM exams. She was always so patient and accommodating; something I never overlooked or forgot. It was until much later in life that I learned that she was trained in music therapy. Thank you for everything you have done not only for me but also for many other musicians and for music in Belize. We have truly lost a gem🤍

Enduring Legacy of our Dear Sister Ida Ann She leaves with us her Music, her humble life-style, her faith, discipline and commitment; and her words & messages with affinity to the ultimate teacher. Some of my most poignant memories of her were in moments where she shared her unique and always gracious and thankful nature.
Once, after receiving a care package from Trinity Methodist Church she shared her thanks as such.. “My most sincere gratitude for the wonderful care package. Every item show your thoughtfulness and generosity and have truly touched my heart. I am incredibly grateful for the love you have shown me.”
After sharing her musical talents with us after every First Sunday worship Service, she would always bless us for the care we took in adorning our sanctuary with words like these…..
“I always admire Trinity Church’s floral arrangement, it is different, I call it a living tribute and it is beautiful”
And one day meeting her during one of her walks she admonished me for not joining my husband on his walks as she explained that….
“Among other things, my walk is a time of devotion, where I can see God’s beauty, glory, power, wisdom, presence, creativity, and, most of all, his loving care, which I can share with those I meet along the way”.
Her unique and profound perspective on life will always resound in me. We shall miss her presence and her talents but we rejoice for the church triumphant has gained a beautiful soul, to our God be the glory.

Ida Ann and her family were neighbors of my maternal family, the Reneau’s, on King Street, Belize. I remember hearing her practicing those musical scales on the piano early every morning. I last saw her about a couple months ago when she was in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for her nieces funeral. On behalf of myself and the Reneau family, we extend our sincere condolences to her family! Rest with the Angels and Rise in Glory, Ida💕🙏🌹🦋

Ms.Maggi, Ms Ida mom began to teach me the piano at age seven. Ms.Ida took me over around eleven years. A skilled classical pianist Ms.Ida taught me all she knew then said i cant take you any further. I am forever thankfull to God for a Mentor Counsel an Piano Teacher. My sympathy to her family she will forever be cherished RiP.

I had the honor of meeting Ms. Ida briefly a couple months back. In that brief moment I was able to experience the extreme kindness and care she shares with people.

I call myself lucky to have experience her musical
Prowess.

She will be heavily missed.