In the middle of a rainy Saturday afternoon, Broadus Willoughby sits at a table at a local restaurant. His wife Lib is next to him. On either side of them are a group of ladies, varying in age and background. All have gathered due to a common bond, and that bond is Isabelle Collins.

Collins, a long time resident of Americus, is absent, because; as Ginny Powell said, “We kind of wanted to surprise her,” with a tribute. According to the group, Isabelle Collins probably would not tell her own story, as she is very humble.

Broadus Willoughby’s eyes widen, “This is a ladies’ story, but I will tell you that Isabelle Collins is a,” he paused.

Southern lady? He pondered.

A Southern lady with a twist? Willoughby nodded, “Yes, if you add the twist to it.”

The reason behind the surprise is simple as Powell declared that Isabelle Collins, who will turn four score and seven years in September, “everyone wants to be like Isabelle.”

Helen Hicks, who has known Collins for around 45 years, said, “Isabelle is a wonderful friend, and is so enthusiastic, especially about golf.”

She loves to play golf, and according to Powell, “She won’t let anyone carry her clubs.”

Broadus Willoughby said, “Not even her husband touched her stuff.”

Collins shot her age on the golf course recently, and that, according to her pals, is a first.

A big fan of golfer Phil Mickelson, because “he is a lefty like she is,” said Powell, Isabelle is also a fan of football’s Payton brothers.

Collins, who’s husband Harold was a former pastor of Americus’ First Baptist Church, “has never had a bad day,” said Ginny Powell.

“Most tennis and golf players can be irritable, but not Isabelle. I have never heard her say anything negative about anyone,” Powell said.

Gayle Stembridge was a college student when Isabelle Collins and her husband served at First Baptist Church. “I have only played golf with her for about 10 years. I have never seen her discouraged. She is a very spiritual lady.”

Jane Hall said, “Isabelle Collins is an amazing woman in all that she does from almost being the oldest woman in our senior golf group to traveling whenever a trip appears in the future.”