Sheila Collins just months before her January 26, 1968 murder
If a heartless predator had not found her, Iowa Cold Case victim Sheila Jean Collins would’ve celebrated her 61st birthday today.
Those of us who care for her can only imagine where life would’ve taken Sheila — certainly somewhere far away from that lonely gravel road in Story County where her life ended when she was just 18.
Her devoted boyfriend planned to give her an engagement ring when the college semester was over, so marriage would’ve been certain. Children and grandchildren might have followed.
Sheila’s intellect would have taken her far, and she might now be considering retirement from a job where her talents would have made a significant contribution.
One thing is certain: her beautiful smile and friendly ways would have brightened many people’s lives, just as they did all her short life.
We can never know. We can only imagine. We can only ask, “What if . . . .”
Sheila Collins
If you have any information about the January 26, 1968 unsolved murder of Iowa State University freshman Sheila Jean Collins, please contact the Story County Sheriff’s Office at 515-382-6566.
Sheila Collins
Sheila Jean Collins was 18. She was full of life, friendly, and fun-loving. Her smile and green eyes dazzled, her long brown hair swung thick and beautiful. Her contagious laughter rang through the halls of her Iowa State dorm. She was smart and an excellent seamstress. She was tolerant and generous and kind. She lived an exemplary life and harmed no one. She was loved by her parents and sisters and a boy who was planning to give her an engagement ring. Her complete innocence and her trusting nature led her to accept a ride with a stranger.
She was murdered 42 years ago today, on January 26, 1968.
Tonight, once again, a small group of us still seeking answers will retrace her journey from the ISU campus to the spot where her body was found in rural Story County. It will be a somber and humbling moment in which we remember Sheila’s life and honor her memory. The lack of resolution will be frustrating and saddening.
Someone knows what happened to Sheila Collins. Someone can provide the answers to the mystery of this beautiful life ended too soon. If you have any information, please come forward. It is never too late. Nancy Bowers
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