On March 7, 2026, Freida Gunn Collins of Ellisville peacefully passed away at her home just as she lived - surrounded by family and friends.

Freida was born April 30, 1948, to Mildred and Gordon Gunn. An outgoing and involved member of the Ellisville community in her childhood, Frieda made lifelong friends at Ellisville High School. Those relished bonds endured her entire life.

Following high school, Freida attended the University of Mississippi. She earned a degree in Political Science, a Juris Doctor, and a Masters of Library Science. Her love of all Ole Miss athletics provided lifelong joy, as well as source material for teasing her numerous Mississippi State friends.

For over 50 years, Freida practiced law in Ellisville within the public and private sector. She ran the type of small town firm dreamed of by most law school students. Her conscientious guidance helped countless clients navigate solutions, big and small. For 35 of those years, Freida simultaneously served as Ellisville City Attorney. Her generous use of time and talents ultimately earned her the Citizen of the Year in 2016. The proud achievement reciprocated the gratitude and support she had shown for the hometown she loved in many ways.

Freida loved to travel. She took trips to Italy, France, Spain, Ireland, England, Canada, and Scotland with her sister and daughter. She also criss-crossed the United States, savoring destination hotels and unique shops.

At home Freida doubled as the consummate southern hostess. Everyone was welcome in her home, whether weekday or holiday. Plus no one ever left hungry. Teaching Sunday School at the Ellisville Methodist Church and needle point kept her busy.

For nearly 40 years Freida maintained membership with the Ellisville Rotary Club. The organization provided an opportunity to work with other civic-minded people in the area and host their annual Christmas party at her house.

Freida is preceded in death by her father Gordon Gunn and mother Mildred Gunn. She is survived by her daughter Jane (DeMatt) and granddaughter Annie Mae. She is also survived by her sister Martha Gunn Poole of Germantown, TN and nephews Nathan Poole, Griffin Poole, and John Poole.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Ellisville Methodist Church in her honor.  As a lifelong Methodist she would love to know good deeds are continuing to be done in her name.

Services will be on Friday, March 13th at the Methodist Church of Ellisville. Visitation at 9am, service at 11am and burial immediately following at Bethel Methodist Cemetery in Covington County off Highway 588.