Wanda Maxine Collins

Wanda Maxine Collins, 74, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on March 18, 2026, in Des Moines due to multiple health issues.

A celebration of Wanda’s life will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Merle Hay Funeral Home Chapel, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa.

She was born on March 29, 1951, in Des Moines to Roy and Lucille Collins. Wanda was raised and educated in Des Moines, where she spent her life surrounded by family, friends, and the community she loved.

Wanda had a vibrant personality and enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. She loved visiting Prairie Meadows Casino, making her well-known “Naughty Cakes,” and listening to Elvis, Dolly Parton, and other country music favorites. Above all, Wanda cherished her family and the time she spent with them.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Tammy (Rick) Barba, Chad (Mindy) Fontanini, and Gina Fontanini; her grandchildren, Nicholas Richardson, Kevin Richardson, Gino Fontanini, Johnathan Fontanini, and Alex Fontanini; her great-grandchildren, Leijla, Emma, Olivia, Jayden, Evertte, and Lyla; her siblings, Charleen, Colleen, Earleen, twin brother -  LeeRoy (Kathie), Barbara, and Debbie; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her longtime boyfriend, Don Reeves; her son, Glenn; her grandson, Dustin; her granddaughter, Amber; her parents; and siblings.

A celebration of Wanda’s life will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Merle Hay Funeral Home Chapel, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa.

Wanda will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.