With profound sadness we announce the passing of Ana Teresa Collantes, our loving and devoted mother and friend to all whose lives she touched, on July 18 ^th , 2022. She left peacefully at home with family.

Born in David Chiriqui, Panama of an Italian mother, Josephina Migliorini Rios, and a Colombian father, Gilberto Rios. Youngest of 4 she had fond memories of swimming at the beach, picking tropical fruit from the yard, riding her pony and scrapping with her brother Tito, who loved her to pieces.

In high school, she excelled in 3 areas, swimming, tennis and of course, singing, with the latter talent providing her with a special 1 year cultural and musical exchange scholarship to the University of Kentucky.

She returned from her year of adventures in Kentucky and as was her passion, her vocal services were frequently requested at the Presidential Palace, where she performed for visiting dignitaries, including Prince Philip of England who after hearing her performance, inquired if she could be his translator for his south American tour.

Fate stepped in as she met a striking Peruvian doctor, Arturo Collantes, who attended to her injury, and sure enough, he was smitten with his new patient. They began courting and were wed soon after.

They honeymooned in the US and eventually moved here. Though Dad's internships led the young family to New York­, Virginia and Birmingham, Alabama, they eventually landed in Atlanta where she moved up the corporate ladder at Coca Cola USA. In short order, she went from executive secretary to becoming media coordinator.

We lived in Decatur in the 60's and we grew up thinking everyone's Mom belted out famous Operas at full tilt while washing dishes. One neighbor even shared with me as he was an avid walker, that he was surprised to hear her singing as he walked by, realizing it was a live kitchen sink performance.

Mom always loved to cook, and we children have countless memories of her enjoying having family & friends gathering for her wonderful Patacones, Arroz con Pollo, Yucca Frita, Empanadas, and Flan...

In the mid-80's she hosted and produced one of the first cable access TV shows, "BUENAS NOCHES ATLANTA" and was very active in the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Panamanian Club of Atlanta.

Once retired, Mom loved singing in her church choir and was active with the Church Women United organization.

She lived a very full life as a wonderful mother and devoted friend and will be remembered by many as the woman with the "Million Dollar Smile" We were blessed to have had her as our mother, and she will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

Last sibling of the Rios clan, she is survived by 3 children: Arthur, Teresa and Ana Maria.

We invite you to join us to celebrate the amazing life of Ana T. Collantes (18 SEP 1929 - 18 JUL 2022). Let us share the personal stories that weaved the tapestry of her relationship with us all. As per her wishes, we will provide a spirited sendoff worthy of a woman of many talents.  Dress festively for the occasion, bright colors welcome! For those of you who wish to share your favorite family dishes please contact her daughter Ana (678-361-8162) and let us know what you're bringing. Come join friends and family as we toast this beloved and talented woman. Looking forward to seeing you all.

Those wishing to send online condolences may do so at www.LakesideFuneralHomeGa.com .

Lakeside Funeral Home, 121 Claremore Drive, Woodstock, Ga 30188, Phone: 770-293-2757, is honored to assist The Collantes Family.