Calvin David Collins, Jr.

Calvin David Collins, Jr., a resident of Ashford, passed away peacefully at his residence surrounded by family and friends. He was 79 years old.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2pm Saturday, March 25, 2023 in Sunset Funeral Home with Pastor Joel Laseter officiating. Military honors will follow in Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 1-2 pm prior to the service at the funeral home.

Mr. Collins was born October 17, 1943 in Morrilton, Arkansas to the late Calvin and Katey Collins. He was a graduate of Morrilton High School and lived there most of his younger years. After moving to the Wiregrass, David met the love of his life, Mary Joyce Collins, they were together for 34 years. Mr. Collins was employed with Swedish Match formally General Cigar for many years as a mechanic and following that with the Dothan Eagle delivering newspapers. David enjoyed being Santa's helper during the holidays and spreading the joy of Christmas to anyone, fishing, visiting and playing dominoes at the Kinsey senior center on Wednesdays. He was an avid Arkansas and Atlanta Braves fan and enjoyed watching them play whenever he could.

David is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 34 years, Mary Joyce Collins; and his siblings, Oscar Collins, Billy Collins, Ervin Collins, Alice Simmons, Allidean Kee, Carl Collins, and Charles Collins.

Survivors include his children, David Standridge, Johnny Collins (Eileen), Michael Collins (Ellen), Phillip Collins, Irean Denise Holcomb (Richard), Joey Collins, Perry Collins, Dave Collins (Emma); his siblings, Maxine Curtis, Alvin Collins (Mary), David Collins, and Ernie Collins; many grandchildren, great- grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Pat Blackwell.