Gerald M. Collins

Gerald Maurice Collins, Jonesboro, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on October 10, 2019 surrounded by his loving family. He was born January 25, 1935 in Walcott to Elvis Collins and Clellen (Teddy) Dacus Collins.

Gerald was a veteran of the United States Army and Army Reserve and a retired salesman. He was a member of Highland Drive Baptist Church and a former award-winning Boy Scout Leader. Before failing health slowed him down, he was constantly on the go; and loved outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, boating, and riding his motorcycle. He was an accomplished swimmer and served for years as a lifeguard.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Kenneth Collins.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Delores Ann Collins, of the home; a daughter, Lisa (Gary) Harpole of Jonesboro; granddaughters Callie MaRae Harpole of Nashville, Tennessee and Chloe Harpole of Jonesboro; a great-grandson, Caleb Harpole of Jonesboro; a sister, Teddy Carolyn Thrasher of Rolla, Missouri; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who will miss his quick wit, huge smile and infectious personality.

Pall Bearers include Chris Hancock, Wes Hancock, Brandon Hancock, Tommy Hancock, Randy Collins, Phil Phillips and David Judd. Honorary Pallbearers include Jeff Brown, Kim Edens, Jeff Stotts, Jerry Halsey, Jr., Roddy Thrasher, Ralph Lincoln, and Don Bailey, as well as Gary Eubanks and the Adult 1 Sunday School Class of Highland Drive Baptist Church.

Visitation will be at 1pm Sunday afternoon, October 13, at Emerson Memorial Chapel with the service starting at 2:30 pm. Johnny Hutchison will officiate. Burial will be in Oaklawn Cemetery in Jonesboro.