By Karen Andrew
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Retired teacher and community activist Gloria Goldie Colin was known as an unsung hero by her family and friends.

"She supported a number of causes," said one of her sisters, Sheila Adams of Springdale. "She did things because that was the right thing to do."

Ms. Colin died in her sleep of a heart attack on Tuesday. The College Hill resident was 75.

She was born in 1927 to Lawrence G. and Goldie Thompson in Cincinnati and attended Steele Elementary and Hughes High School.

In 1952, Ms. Colin, who was fluent in Spanish, earned a bachelor's degree in education from Mexico City College in Mexico. That same year she married David "Tony" Colin.

She became employed with the Cincinnati Public Schools system, first teaching kindergarten through Grade 3 at the Schiel School and later substituting at various CPS schools.

According to Ms. Adams, her sister was the first choice when a substitute was needed.

"She was an educator that understood how children learn - they learn in calm, productive environments," said Ms. Adams. "She had a mild and loving spirit."

She was a member of College Hill Presbyterian Church and active in a number of community organizations. She served with the College Hill Neighborhood Watch. Ms. Adams said her sister "was really attuned to what was going on in the neighborhood."

Ms. Colin supported the Urban League and dedicated much of her time behind the scenes, such as working on mailings and supporting events. She also volunteered with the schools and worked with the PTA.

Ms. Adams said her sister's top priority, though, was her family. Even with a career, Ms. Colin never lost sight of the importance of her family.

"She was so dedicated to her family, and made sure they not only had her love but her support," said Ms. Adams.

In addition to her sister, survivors include her husband of 50 years; another sister, Jane Jackson of Florida; brothers Lawrence Jr. and Paul of Los Angeles, Stanley of Cumminsville; a son, Victorio of College Hill; two daughters, Antoinette Lyttle of College Hill and Davida Frazier of Finneytown; eight grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.

Services were held.

Memorials: American Heart Association, 2936 Vernon Place, Cincinnati, OH 45219-2462.

E-mail kandrew@enquirer.com