Colleen Mary Atwater

Colleen Mary Atwater, a devoted wife, mother, and compassionate member of the Lakeland community, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Sarasota, Florida. She was 57 years old.

Colleen was born in Newark, New Jersey, to Joseph A. Miller and Kathleen M. Miller (Maiden Kathleen Kelly). She shared 32 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Brian J. Atwater. Together, they raised two boys and created a loving and supportive life together.

Colleen had a deep passion for helping others, and she dedicated herself to making a positive impact in her community. Whether it was lending a helping hand to a neighbor in need or volunteering her time at local charities, Colleen's selflessness knew no bounds. She approached every task with love and determination, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those she touched.

In addition to her husband, Brian, Colleen is survived by her two children, Michael (born April 22nd, 1994) and Mark (born March 11th, 1996). She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph A. and Kathleen M., but is survived by her siblings, Joseph F. Miller, Mark J. Miller, and Patricia Wigginton. Colleen was dearly loved by all her cousins, nieces, and nephews from Georgia, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Ohio, Chicago, Minnesota, and Canada.

A service to celebrate Colleen's life will be held at the Heath Funeral Chapel, located at 328 South Ingraham Ave, Lakeland, FL 33801. Visitation, and a reception will take place from 5-7pm on May 24, 2023. The funeral mass will be held on May 25, 2023, at 10:00 am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 210 West Lemon Street, Lakeland, FL 33815, followed by a graveside service at Oak Hill Burial Park, located at 4620 US Hwy 98 South, Lakeland, FL 33812.

Colleen's friends were a constant source of strength and love, transforming her life and inspiring her to support others during their most challenging times. It is this unwavering devotion to those around her that made Colleen's life so extraordinary. The Atwater and Miller families would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have offered prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.

Colleen's life was guided by the words of Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." May her spirit continue to inspire us all as we remember and honor her remarkable life.

Rest in peace, Colleen Mary Atwater. You will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know you.

In lieu of flowers, consider “supporting Colleen’s special love for butterflies, her love of Lakeland and the parks that make our community so beautiful.” donations can be sent to Hollis Garden Butterfly Garden, PR&CA, 228 South Massachusetts Ave., Lakeland FL 33801, or Bonnet Springs Park.