Ciara Monet Collins

Ciara Monet Collins, 31, of Springboro, Ohio, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on May 19, 1993, in Dayton, Ohio, she was the beloved daughter of Thomas J. Collins III and Jennifer K. Beaver.

Ciara was a wonderful and devoted wife to Justin Miller, with whom she shared 12 wonderful years of marriage. She is also survived by her mother, Jennifer; her mother-in-law, Linda D. Miller; her brothers, TJ (Nicole Hunt) Collins IV, Josh Collins, Robby Collins, Cory (Jimmi) Linton, and Danny Davis Jr.; her brother-in-law, Geoff Miller; Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, whom she all adored; Best friends, Sam Gulland (Ryan) and Kay White (Sarah) and a plethora of wonderful friends from all different walks of life.

Known for her sharp wit and infectious humor, Ciara had a way of making people laugh even in the most challenging moments. Her quick wittedness and animated stories always brought smiles to the faces of those around her. She believed that her greatest gift to the world was being her authentic, unique self, and in doing so, she made the world a brighter and kinder place.

Ciara had an extraordinary artistic ability, and her creativity knew no bounds. Whether through her love for culinary arts or her passion for Biotechnology, she brought a thoughtful and imaginative touch to everything she pursued. An environmental advocate at heart, she was deeply conscious of the impact we have on our planet and strove to leave the world better than she found it. Her love of nature was evident in her trailblazing spirit, and she often found peace and joy in the outdoors.

She was also a devoted "cat mom" to her two beloved feline companions, Pawl and Persephone, who were a great source of comfort and companionship throughout her journey. She loved all animals and living creatures and was a voice to many creatures who did not have one.

Ciara loved to travel and explore the world around her, always looking for her next adventure. Justin and Ciara traveled many places together; Florida, Vermont, Mt. Rainer to name a few. Most notably, they went to Japan for their honeymoon in 2023, a place that still held part of her heart until her last breath. In August of 2020, after her diagnosis, Ciara, Justin and her mother Jen took a 2 week cross country road trip out west where they explored many state parks and drove through 15 states. The memory of this road trip is greatly cherished by Ciara and her family.

A proud graduate of Fairmont High School, Class of 2012, Ciara pursued her passions at Sinclair Community College, studying both Culinary Arts and Biotechnology. She earned her Associate’s of Science in Biotechnology in 2017 and began a successful career with Procter & Gamble, where her intellect and dedication left a lasting impression. After her 30th birthday, she medically retired from Proctor and Gamble in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, love, laughter, and strength.

Diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer in 2020, Ciara faced every day with determination and grace. Even in the face of her illness, she continued to bring joy and laughter to those around her. Ciara believed in living life fully, and she was a constant reminder to her friends and family of the power of humor, resilience, and self-expression. Ciara helped to found and lead the Metavivor group of South-West Ohio where she provided community, guidance and support for other metastatic cancer survivors. Ciara also participated in political activities to provide a voice for metastatic breast cancer patients. Ciara traveled to Washington DC to advocate for legislative changes to improve medical care availability for metastatic breast cancer patients.

Ciara’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will miss her dearly everyday.

A private graveside service will be at St. Kateri Preserve in Calvary Cemetery for family and close friends. A memorial reception and sharing of memories for all will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 12:00PM to 2:00PM at Routsong Funeral Home, 2100 E. Stroop Road, Kettering, OH 45429. In Ciara’s memory, donations may be made to Metavivor Research, Support INC., and the American Humane Society.