Billy Collins

Billy Collins, 89 of Fleming Island, FL died at home on July 2, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents, Onnie & Theo Kirby Collins and his sister, Betty Jean Barnard. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Beth Collins, son William Collins (Donna), Carolyn Overstreet (Ronnie) and grandchildren, Marie Collins, Will Collins (Ginger), Christopher Overstreet, Evan Overstreet (Caitlin).

Billy was born and spent his early years in Tattnall County/Cobbtown, GA. He joined the United States Marine Corps on May 4, 1948, serving during the Korean War. His Marine Corps service took him to Korea, Japan, China, Thailand, England and many other counties.
After the Marines, Billy continued his military service, joining the United States Coast Guard in 1958. During his career in the Coast Guard, Billy and family were stationed on the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, the Gulf of Mexico and the Great Lakes. A trip to the Netherlands and Great Britain escorting the USSCG Eagle was one of many highlights. An expert marksman, he was selected to train Marine recruits at
Parris Island, SC and competed on the USCG Shooting Team. After over 20 years of combined military service, he retired as a Chief Gunner’s Mate on Jan. 1, 1970. Returning to Georgia, Billy and Beth settled in Port Wentworth for the next 38 years. Billy then began his second career at Sears as a Heating, Air Conditioning and Appliance technician. His friends and family always knew who to call if anything was in need of repair.

An active member of Jasper Springs Baptist Church (Garden City, GA), Billy served as a deacon and loved singing in the choir. He also served his community by delivering for Meals on Wheels from 1991 to 2007. He was a volunteer of the Port Wentworth Senior Center and Lion’s Club member. He truly loved being outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and gardening. While stationed in Alaska, he reeled in a Halibut
weighing over 100 lbs. His first love was family, and few things brought him greater joy when than when they were all together.
“Papa” enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren and his grandpups. In 2007, Billy and Beth moved to Fleming Island, FL. The family is grateful for the care he received from
Community Hospice.

The family will receive friends in the Broadus-Raines Chapel from 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm on Monday, July 6, 2020.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Jasper Springs Baptist Church, 62 Smith Avenue, Garden City, GA 31408.