Joellen Patrice "Monk Collins-Jackson was born on December 14, 1951 in East St. Louis, IL to the union of the late Harry R. Collins Sr. and Alversa Williams-Collins.

Joellen attended East St. Louis Sr. High School where she graduated. She also attended SIUE where she received her Bachelor's and Master's degree. She was once employed by Barnes Hospital of St. Louis, MO. She became a school teacher for District 189 of East St. Louis, IL for many years.

Joellen P. Collins was united to Derrick V. Jackson Sr, and to this union two children were born, Eric F. Collins and Derrick V. Jackson Jr.

Joellen loved her family. She had a giving heart. She enjoyed attending church (Pilgrim Rest). She loved to dress "well" from head to toe. She also enjoyed musical concerts. In her spare time she enjoyed being outside with her great-grandchildren playing catch.

She was preceded in death by her parents Harry R. Collins Sr. and Alversa Collins. Two brothers, harry R. Collins Jr. and Raymond Collins. Three sisters, Vera Collins, Vonsella D. Gorman, and Hariet E. Samuels, husband Derrick V. Jackson Sr. and one great-granddaughter Me'Leah Collins.

Joellen leaves to cherish her memories, two sons Eric F. Collins and Derrick (Theresa) Jackson of Alorton, Illnois; four brothers, Theodis (Delores) Collins of East St. Louis, IL, James (Shirley) Collins of Alorton, IL., Julian (Barbara) Collins of Alorton, IL., and Kevin (Danetta) Collins of Cahokia, IL; her one and only granddaughter Helyn P. Collins; five grandsons, Kion Mitchell of St. Louis, MO., Melvin (Teriona) Collins of Belleville, IL., Darione Jackson of Alorton, IL., and Devon Chandler of Chicago, IL; eight great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other elative and dear friends.