Melvin Keith Collins

Melvin Keith Collins, known affectionately as Keith, 63, passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro. Born on February 17, 1961, in Paragould, Arkansas, Keith was the beloved son of Melvin Douglas Collins and Helen Stewart.

Keith was a dedicated truck driver and an exceptional father who cherished his family deeply. A devoted member of Grace Evangelical Church in Elgin, IL, he found joy in playing online games, fishing, singing karaoke, and spending quality time with his loved ones. An avid basketball fan and player in his younger years, Keith's athleticism was a source of pride.

He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Douglas Collins, and his cherished aunts and uncle: Jeanette Attaway, Charlene, and Daniel. Keith leaves behind his loving mother, Helen Stewart of Elgin; his devoted children, Michael Collins of Elgin and Katie Collins (Cedric Stewart) of Elgin; his supportive brother, Mark Collins; and his former wife of 33 years, Kathleen Collins. His legacy continues through his adoring grandchildren, Jordan Janssen, Jaliyah Anthony, Hayden Collins, and Cedric Stewart Jr. He is also survived by his aunt Lucille Harvey, uncle Rick Hale, nieces and nephews Stephanie Brokke, Joshua Collins, Ryan Westerman, and Maximus Collins, and cousins Gatlin Elem, Dakota Hale, Bridgette Harvey, Scotty Harvey, and Kevin Harvey, along with countless friends who were like family.

Keith's life will be celebrated with a memorial service on Sunday, July 21, 2024, at Emerson Funeral Home, beginning at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will be held prior to the service, starting at 1:00 p.m. The family invites all who knew and loved Keith to join in commemorating his remarkable life and legacy.