Eddie Collins

James Edward Collins, died peacefully at home on October 2. 2024, in Cleveland, Mississippi. Visitation in Eddie's memory will take place on Monday, October 7, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at Ray Funeral Home. In this time of reflection, his family invites all who knew him to come together to celebrate a life well-lived.

Eddie was born on April 11, 1943, to Lannie Elizabeth and Lloyd Collins in Knoxville, Tennessee. He was baptized at his childhood church home, Marble City Baptist Church. 

Eddie graduated from West High School in Knoxville, Tennessee where he was a gifted athlete in football, baseball, basketball, and track. Voted Most Handsome his senior year, Eddie also earned notable recognition for his basketball skills scoring 52 points in one game. Eddie was honored by the retirement of his basketball jersey at West High School, a testament to his outstanding athletic achievements and the impact he made on the sport. 

Eddie continued his remarkable athletic career by attending the University of Georgia. He played his last 3 years of college at Delta State University under Coach Horace McCool where he met some of his life long friends. He was awarded a full football scholarship and started on both sides of the ball at tight end and defensive end. Eddie helped lead his team to winning seasons each year and was the recipient of numerous outstanding awards. 

Eddie married his college sweetheart, Joyce Farmer, from Lexington, Mississippi in 1965. He began his career at Firestone during his college years and after graduation. Following this, Eddie channeled his entrepreneurial spirit by establishing Delta Tire and Appliance, a business he proudly owned and operated for 35 years. His dedication to both his work and customers became a defining aspect of his life.

One of Eddie's favorite pastimes was going to Oxford or traveling throughout the South to watch the Ole Miss Rebels. He loved picnicking at the Circle in the Grove on Saturdays. Eddie even accepted an award graciously given to him as the "Rebel Booster of the Year" for the Delta Chapter. 

As an avid sports enthusiast, Eddie enjoyed playing golf with his best buddies in his younger years. Eddie enjoyed spending time outdoors with his wife, Joyce, and his dog, Lovey. He loved sitting in the sunshine and watching wildlife, particularly birds. 

Eddie adored his family. Kim was always his baby girl and referred to as "Kimbo" even at the current age of 58. Sam was a "fine man" in Eddie's eyes. He enjoyed attending year round sporting events for Sam and being the significant father figure Sam deserved. The life lessons and invaluable time he shared with Kim and Sam are the most treasured gift of memories for many years to come.

Eddie also adored his white lab, Lovey Pearl, who often rode with him through town perched on the backseat like Driving Miss Daisy. 

Eddie was preceded in death by his parents, Lannie and Lloyd Collins; his brother, Raymond Collins; and his sisters, Evelyn Thompson, Louise Ray, Margaret Sutton, and Helen Collins. 

Eddie is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Joyce Farmer Collins; his daughter, Kim Collins Rayburn of Madison, Mississippi and grandson, Samuel Thomas Rayburn IV of Oxford, Mississippi. 

Eddie was a kind, gentle soul who always had a smile and made everyone feel special. He will be missed beyond measure, but there is comfort knowing we will meet again in a far better place.