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Jason Collier Obituary
Hawks players were notified of Collier's death at 9:30 a.m. Saturday morning before a scheduled workout was cancelled.
Collier, who played at Georgia Tech, was the longest tenured Hawk player, joining the team for the 2003-04 season after spending three seasons in Houston.
656 Entries
Harry Simpson
October 16, 2017
Godspeed Jason, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Chris Impson
December 12, 2015
Jason and I became really close friends when we met in the 5th grade at Rolling Hills. I was blessed to have his friendship as we went to school together during the next 4 years. He then went to Central and I went to KR. We were still friends, but didn't really get a chance to hang out during high school. I wanted to share one of the many memories I have of Jason from our childhood. In the 5th and 8th grades we were both fortunate enough to get to go on the Washington DC trips with the school. I remember setting beside him on the bus ride both times we went. I remember him telling me that his Dream was to play in the NBA as he was gazing out the bus window. Jason is one of very few people in this world that can say that "I accomplished my Dream." Even though Jason and I didn't get to talk much after the 8th grade, I still remember those 4 years when we were good friends. Now, my kids go to Cathloic Central and I proudly remind them that Jason and I had a great friendship. I also tell my kids that Jason was very well rounded; an Honor Student, Funny, Talented, Disciplined, Determined, and most of all was very Kind to everyone. Jason, your legacy and memories live forever in everyone that was blessed to meet you. May God bless the entire Collier Family.
November 3, 2013
Just a memory for you -- I happened to be at Jason's high school graduation and the thing that stood out in my mind was first, he stood out, and up, and was smiling at everyone he passed. Everybody seemed to know him and he acknowledged them all. I was saddened to hear of his passing at the time, and though I didn't know him personally, it was a loss I, too, felt. May your memories give you peace.
March 29, 2013
Gone too soon. please be assured that you will see your loved one again. This promise is found in tne 5th chapter of the Gospel John at verses 28 and 29.
How you can show support
william west
January 13, 2012
my thoughts and prayers to jasons family rip jason may god bless the family and be with them and keep them safe and sound
Allen Roberts
November 28, 2011
so sad ive just found out, i whent to jnr school in chiswick,london with him, i'm so very sorry,god bless you!!!.
Dewayne S
April 10, 2010
RIP Jason
Charles Green
April 9, 2010
Back in the 9th grade, I used to follow the top high school basketball players in the country. Mr. Collier was one of them. When it's all said and done, though, basketball is so small when a person looks at the whole scope of things. I'm sure Jason was a very well rounded person. (Acts 24:15)
March 16, 2010
Dear Mr. Collier's family, please accept my warmest sympathies and be comforted knowing God is "near to those that are broken at heart and those who are crushed in spirit he saves." (Psalm 34:18) He can give us power beyond what is normal to go on from one day to the next (2 Corin. 4:7)
Craig
December 12, 2009
What a remarkable person Jason was and I wish he was still here today. Our life on this earth is so short and we need to keep in mind that God has plans for us, on earth and in heaven. Jason is still an insperation and roll model and we must all do our best to follow the path that God has put before us.
Scott Allen
September 9, 2008
I remember hearing of Jason's passing and it really struck me as especially tragic and sad. Now, almost three years later, I thought of it randomly and it made me sad again. I remembered the tribute video on NBA.com, it made me realize how great of a human being Jason was. A real classy, down-to-earth and funny guy. I picked him on my fantasy basketball team in 2005 shortly after his passing as a small tribute to him. So very sad, I hope his wife and daughter, and the rest of his family are well. You are missed Jason, even by those who never knew you bro.
Jason Collier
July 21, 2008
my names Jason Collier and i searched my name on google and this is what came up.. sorry to hear about his passing RIP
PP
October 25, 2007
I watched Jason since he was a rookie for the rockets. He was a very hard-working and dedicated guy. It's really sad to know him gone being so young. God Bless..
Carlos A.
October 23, 2007
I was an undergrad at Duke when Jason was an undergrad at Georgia Tech. Watching him play against us, I was always impressed with the way he carried himself. He seemed like such a a genuine, decent guy with no vanity despite being the best player on Tech's team. God bless him and his family.
Noretta Justice
July 25, 2007
I was very impressed by the tribute given to Jason by his fellow basketball team at Catholic Central.
Evan Maison
July 24, 2007
after all of these years, people still send their happy wishes and prayers out to your family and i do too. god bless you jason and may your legacy live a long time
Greg and Amy Spivia
July 7, 2007
We will never ever forget you Jason! We love Katie and Ella as our own and we'll continue to nurture them and pray for your family. You went to heaven all too soon, but we will meet again some day. We continue to shead tears in missing you but know you are in a safe "heaven". We will meet you some day again up there and will help keep a close eye on your family. They are in pain but know that God will love and keep them until they meet you in heaven one day. We miss and love you and Katie too ohh...Ella too!
Amy and Greg Spivia
John
September 8, 2006
Today would have been Jason's 29th birthday. Please keep Jason's Family in your prayers today.
kathy gairland
August 8, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Ian Gilbert
July 20, 2006
Jason was a great man, and he proved that every day he was here with us. I met Jason when I was in high school during a charity game with local talent matched against incoming IU recruits. He spoke with me and signed a basketball for me and I will never forget that. God bless the Collier family.
Todd F Colbert
June 9, 2006
R.I.P Jason
Tom goldeneagle
April 8, 2006
Excellent tribute to Collier. We will all miss you.
Marshall Ulrich
April 8, 2006
It was really sad that he died.
andre westbrook
April 1, 2006
It is still a shock that this talented young man was lost during his prime. We must cherish every minute we have with our love ones. Jason would want us to remember that.(Luke 23:43)
kennedy dayne
March 31, 2006
An excellent and classy tribute to a fine young man.
leroy phillip
February 26, 2006
I WISH JASON'S FAMILY THE BEST AND BLESS THEM
Khayyam Family
January 5, 2006
My heart and prayers are with your family and may god continue to keep you strong. Jason's spirit will forever live on.
Hollis Family
December 27, 2005
During this time of the year it is extremely difficult to deal with the loss of a love one. My family prays for the family of this young hero Jason Collier. Find strength and refuge in the lord. Because in he there is no failure. No situation to big to handle and no problem to hard to solve. God bless you all.
S. L. Ragin
December 19, 2005
It is a sad day when you loose one so young. My heart goes out to his family. May God keep you strong through this difficult time.
Michael buchanan
November 28, 2005
Hi just wanted to let you know me and my wife are praying for you and your family. We enjoyed watching jason play and he will be missed our prayers are with you.Gods speed jason
Elisa Orozco
November 26, 2005
Belated condolences on the untimely loss of this great individual. If only there were more NBA players who would adopt Jason's role model image. He gave so much while he was here and he will live on in those loving, charitable, and unselfish acts. God Bless You, Jason. You have surely earned a place in His heavens.
Sean Rhodes
November 23, 2005
As a huge Hawks fan I paid attention to every Atlanta player. But few have stood out the way Jason did. Not just for his basketball abilities but more for his love and commitment to his wife and kids. Thats what impressed me and what I enjoyed the most from the tribute video. May the peace of God guard the hearts and minds of the Collier family.
Kenneth Harrris
November 19, 2005
Jason always played the game the right way! He will be missed very much!
pascal Rwabukamba
November 17, 2005
The first player that always came to my mind, and my favorite Atlanta Hawks player was, Jason Collier, Jason always gave in 100% for his team, and had a good heart for every one around him,I think the Atlanta Hawks, should retier his jersey and # 40, because there was 1 Jason Collier, and there will always be 1 Jason Collier. You are truly gonna be missed, by your family, friends, NBA family, The Atlanta Hawks, NBA fans and the people you helped out throughout your life, Our prayers are always going to be with you, R.I.P JC # 40
pol tobes
November 17, 2005
condolence to the bereaved family of the late Jason Collier
Austin Schultz
November 14, 2005
I was touched when I saw the Hawks Lakers game and they had the tribute to Jason. God Bless Jason and his Family
Dee W.
November 12, 2005
It is so sad to hear that Jason died so young and tragically. I hope that the promises of the true God at Rev. 21:3,4 will comfort your family.
GWEN Grayson
November 12, 2005
R.I.P
Jerry Fan
November 11, 2005
I am saddened with the passing of Jason Collier. I wish his family and friends a good luck on living a life wthout him. Best of luck to Jason and I hope God will put Jason in heaven and take care of him.
j cooper
November 9, 2005
May God comfort all in need.
Damiune Whittenburg
November 9, 2005
i would like to say is that i am a b-ball fan and my heart gos out to you
pat hearlihy
November 7, 2005
Joyce, Jeff & Family
I attended the student service at catholic central, the public service at catholic central, the NE-CCHS football game and have watched the 8 min tribute on nba.com several times. I have been very touched by this situation.
I'll never forget jason helping me to run a soccer practice, when he was in the 3rd grade and I didn't know what to do when the head coach couldn't make practice.
Also, I very much appreciated it when Jason and Tony visted my 90 yr old neighbor Elwood Pitzer who was the head coach of the 1950 Spfld High state champs. It was a very exciting day for Elwood (and me).
We think of you and pray for you often.
- Pat Hearlihy & Family
d t
November 5, 2005
hi my name is d, i saw you play vs my favorite team miami on many of occasions. each time you played us u got better and better, i wish we could of traded for you, but best of luck where ever your life has taken you, thanks for the good times, best of luck to the hawks, and maybe they can win the big one for you
Joshua Asa
November 5, 2005
I am so sorry that Jason had to die. He was only young and never one a title. I hope that he is in a better place now. The Hawks will have to work EXTRA hard to move on without him.
Seconya White
November 4, 2005
I am sorry to hear about the death of Jason Collier. I give my thoughts and pray to his family
Anthony Jones
November 3, 2005
I always enjoyed to see you play the game of basketball. You will always be remembered.
Patricia Burchett
November 3, 2005
I am a high school friend of Jeff Collier and I was very saddened to hear of your loss. Thinking of you. Patty
Crystal Atkinson
November 3, 2005
The Collier Family
My heart and prayers are with you at this time as you grieve.
Just remember Jason is looking down on you everyday watching you in everyway.
I didn't know jason or much about him. but he looked like a nice guy from picture and stuff that i see.
good luck to your family as you continue down the road of struggle and i will continue to pray for you
Tomas Nagys
November 3, 2005
I will always remeber Jason Collier as a great guy, who was my host during my official visit at Georgia Tech (as a basketball prospect), while I was trying to decide between colleges after i graduated from High School. I am writing this all the way from Russia, because that's where I am playing professional ball at, but I will keep Colliers family in my prayers and thoughts.
Jill Griffin-Mitch (CCHS '96)
November 2, 2005
The Collier Family,
I had the pleasure of knowing Jason for most of his life. From having his mother as my Kindergarten teacher, to swimming on the Lakewood swim team together, to graduating Catholic Central in 1996! Jason has literally always been someone I've looked up to. He was a ray of sunshine where ever he went. I will never forget the laughter he brought to the room when he entered or that beautiful smile he flashed always at the right time.
I didn't keep in touch with Jason when he went to college or on to the NBA as much as I would have liked to. Having two children of my own, it is hard to do anything that you would "like to do!" However, whenever I had the opportunity to see Jason in town it was always exciting. I remember the night up at Heroes when I had the chance to meet the woman Jason was to marry; Katie! You always wish someone the best and I don't think Jason could have found better.
Katie, you are an amazing person and I really admire you and your strength. The one thing that really gets to me these days is seeing pictures of Jason and Ella. You can see in his eyes how proud he was of her. As a parent, I have a hard time dealing with that, the loss of her father that she will never really know. I know you will always remind her how much he loved her.
I pray that you find comfort throughout this difficult time through the many memories you shared. I will forever treasure my friendship with Jason and he will never be forgotten.
India Myers
November 2, 2005
To the family of the "gentle giant",Jason will be missed by everyone,my son is now 16 years old and he was talking to me about how larger than life Jason was to a bunch of 5 and 6 year olds...he laughed when he recalled walking around Mrs.Collier's class with Jason's shoes on and the only comfort that I could give him was that they were and are going to be some big shoes to feel,my child couldn't understand why god took him at such a young age...I explained to him that god does nothing without a purpose we may not understand,and may not ever but to his family take comfort in knowing that he is in a better place.Gone but never forgotten..may god bless his family...thank you for the opportnity of knowing your son,brother,husband and dad...
Kim Evans
November 2, 2005
My deepest sympathy to Mr. Collier's family. I understand personally, having lost my 26 year old husband in nearly the same manner (cardiac arrest) in 2000. The journey along the road of grief is a difficult one and my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Atlanta will miss his talents as well.
Bev, Brandon & Cole Justice
November 1, 2005
We knew Jason through his mother, Mrs. Collier who is a wonderful person and teacher. Jason seemed to share that same warmth and friendliness.
Our thoughts are with the entire family. Jason will never be forgotten. The Justice Family
Jaine Carpenter
November 1, 2005
My heart is heavy with your loss, but I'm find comfort knowing he is now where we all strive to go sooner or later. May God be with you in this most difficult time.
Matthew Moorman
October 31, 2005
I knew Jason through other sports (and through goofing off). He was a swimmer, soccer player, and a heck of a good pickle-ball player. I remember this amazingly intense/funny face that he had when taking a breath (breast stroke, a stroke that no one could beat him in). He'd win the race and then hop out of the pool and seek fun. He had this great owl sound that would carry across the pool. It sounds pretty random, but it was great. Yep, everybody's right, he was a born laugher. And I'll never forget his 40 yard game winning boot while the referee was counting down the remaining 10 seconds of a middle-school traveling soccer team. He tucked it in the side netting. We tackled him to the ground.
Just wanted to share a perspective, and extend a warm regard to Mom, Dad, Sister, Brother, Wife, and Daughter. Long Live Jason Collier.
Jana Everitt
October 31, 2005
I can't imagine what Jason's family is going through. I do know that time heals but it takes just that, time. I'm so sorry for your loss. From what I've read, Jason was a class act on and off the court. People like Jason are hard to find these days and that includes basketball. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time. Regards, Jana Everitt
John & Debbie Bernardo
October 31, 2005
Many knew this young man for his talents on the court and maybe even his comedic personality off of it.
We are proud friends of the Collier's, to have watched him grow from a little boy, barely coming up to his father's knee, to become someone so dear to all he touched. This Guest Book, and all who attended his funeral and memorial services, are a reflection of the love for this great man.
Katie, Ella, Jeff, Joyce, Julie and Jarod can rest assured that they will always have our hearts with them as we continue to remember how he brought us smiles every day. And always will.
Ella, I especially want you to know that your father will continue to be the role model of men for many years to come. He truly loved you and your mother. We need more like him in this world.
Katie, at the memorial service in Springfield, I told you about my fondest memory of Jason...when he was a little boy and we fished for bass in the little pond at the annual company picnic. He wore that incredible smile, dimple and all, when he reeled in those fish! That's how I will remember him..as a fisherman among men, bringing us joy and comfort. Always having a love of the water.
We look forward to watching Ella grow and share that same dimpled smile we've come to know and love in Jason.
God Bless you!
jim stevenson
October 31, 2005
in the words of scotlands greatest poet "WILL YE NO COME BACK AGAIN"
sadly missed thinking of his family god bless
Jim Grace
October 31, 2005
I will always remember the great person, and hard worker.
Jamie Iverson
October 30, 2005
I truelly do not know or what to say I have looked and watch jasons history of his lifetime..and was very saddend to hear that a young person with so much going for him..that a tragety had happend my condolenses & sympathy to his wife and Daughter & all his family..All I have heard about Jason is good things from a friend of mine who is from springfield & his name is Jason too & I know he is sadden by jason's collier tragety..Jason Collier Not only supported basketball But he supported everything he done..this is why I want to say something...But also to say Jason is in Gods hands now...I am very touched by this remarkable mans story...God Bless you Jason Collier. From Jamie Iverson (England)
Dave/Polly Rockhold
October 30, 2005
To the Collier Family,
I don't know what to say other then you are in our prayers. We will all remember the time we spent with him. I will never forget playing basketball with you guys in our driveway! What a hoot!
Remember the joy!
The Rockhold Family.
E J
October 28, 2005
MAY U REST IN PEACE JASON AND TO THE FAMILY STAY STRONG
Mercy Rehab Center
October 28, 2005
To Joyce, Jeff and Family:
We were so sorry to hear about Jason. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May all the Wonderful Memories that you have of Jason help you thru the days ahead..
The Staff at Mercy Rehab Center
Jon Ricciuto
October 27, 2005
My dad was Jason's high school basketball coach. My brother and I had the chance to be the ball boys for the team, even during the team's two trips to state. There are no words to express the way I felt when I heard the news of Jason's death. It seemed as though four years of memories with the young Jason Collier flashed through my mind in a second. He was a huge role model for me as a young kid. I still have pieces of the backboard he shattered and pieces of the nets from the trips to state.
All of my simpathy goes out to all of the family memebers. Jason is greatly missed but tremendously remembered as a great person and a model for all of us. God doesn't give us anything we can't handle. Sometimes the cross seems too heavy to bare, but these are the times that God is with us the most. God Bless you all, and know that you are in all of our prayers.
James Bjiggs
October 27, 2005
I never met Jason Collier, but I watch him on television while he was with Georgia Tech and the Hawks. He was a great example of a role model. Playing the game the way he should and conducting himself as a true gentle. God bless him, may he rest in peace. He is a player I will never forget. James T. Biggs.
Douglas O'Brien
October 27, 2005
I met Jason at Bobby Knight's baketball camp on admission day when I was enrolling my son. He was kind enough to have his picture taken with my son and give him an autograph. He was a gentle giant, a kind, soft-spoken man, and my prayers are with his family. God Bless.
AL A. NORVELL
October 26, 2005
I never met Mr.Jason Collier face to face but I was able to admire his presence for just a short while. It was 1997 when I witness a reflection of "a fathers pride" . They both had just purchased a pair of shoes from a FootLocker Store I once managed in Springfield Ohio. I was not from Springfield but from Cleveland Heights, Ohio. The Colliers were preparing for a big high school tournament game against my home town high schoolers: The Cleveland Heights High Tigers led by J.R Bremer. Mr Collier Sr. revealed a gold ribbon of pride for his son, it was beautiful to see a father and son leave with such promise ahead. I once hope'd to see Mr. Jason Collier in a Cleveland Cavalier Uniform along side Mr. Bremer a few years ago..how sweet that would have been for Ohio. I will never foreget the look on Seniors face as he left my store that day in Springfield's UpperValley Mall, my prayers go out to you and your entire family and friends.
Al A. Norvell - Richmond Heights, Ohio
Nick Feldman
October 26, 2005
Jason will be missed greatly. He will be missed off the court as much as on; my thoughts and prayers go out to the Hawks team and organization, and especailly to Jason's family.
Deylon Douglass
October 25, 2005
To the Collier Family,
I was a freshman when Jason was a senior and took our team to the state championship. Jason was more than just an incredible basketball player. He was caring, kind, and would go out of his way to make someone feel comfortable. Even though I was only a freshman, he treated me with the same respect as he did everyone else. Jason was a true humanitarian and he will be greatly missed. Rest In Peace JC #40
William Judson
October 25, 2005
I just wanted to say that I send my condolences to Jason's family and I will say a special pray for them.
William Judson
Amanda Booren
October 25, 2005
I watched Jason play at IU, never missed a game. He was a tremendous player, and an even better person. When he came to play for the Rockets, I was thrilled to be able to watch him play again. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Collier family, Katie and his daughter, the Atlanta Hawks organization and the NBA. Jason will be missed!
Lori (Frost) Bush
October 25, 2005
All our love and prayers go out to the family and close friends of Jason Collier. When I heard the news it took about three days for it to sink in that this was really happening. He is always in our hearts and thoughts! Lori (Frost) Bush and family
Doug Schissler
October 25, 2005
First and foremost, I offer my deepest sympathy to Jason's family. I have met his parents a couple times, but never had the privilege of meeting his siblings or his wife and child. I know Jason from way back, early days of grade school, playing basketball against each other, and then at Catholic Central, where I was one year ahead of him. I was always impressed during high school with the modest way Jason carried himself. It would be so easy to let all the attention go to your head, especially in high school, but Jason always seemed to keep his ego in check. He came over to my friend’s house around New Year’s eve of 1997 to tell us that he just signed with Georgia Tech. He was so excited! Sharing that excitement was something Jason seemed to enjoy greatly. I saw Jason a few years ago, and he gave me his number, told me to call him and he'd get me tickets to see one of his games and then we'd go out afterwards. I always meant to take him up on that, but kept putting it off. Now I wish I hadn't. Jason was quick to smile, pleasant to talk to, a genuine guy. We have lost one of the good ones. Rest in peace, Jason.
Columbus Sanders
October 25, 2005
Dear Collier Family,
My prayers are with you for your loss. May the Lord of all Host continue to smile upon you and your family. God bless you!
Elisha (Markwell) Rutschilling
October 25, 2005
Jason was a great guy! My memories of Jason are many. We went to a dance together when he was in 7th grade and I was in 8th at Northridge. We dressed up like "hippies". I could hardly dance with him because he was so tall! I kept in touch with Jason even though he went to Catholic Central and I went to K.R. Once at my parents house in High School, he broke a piece of workout equipment goofing around on it. When he became a "celebrity" that was my dad's claim to fame! I'm praying constantly for his wife and daughter, who is 2 months older than my own son. I am also praying for his parents, brother, sister and friends. Jason was a wonderful person who will be soarly missed. God Bless the Collier family and be with them during their tragedy. I hope the wonderful memories you have will make you smile instead of cry when you think of him!
Amanda Kennedy
October 24, 2005
Hi, I just wanted to say that I am so sorry for your loss. I go to Catholic Central and attended a basketball camp here where Jason came and helped out. I just wanted to let the family know that I am keeping them in my prayers.
Joyace Hanks
October 24, 2005
Dear Collier Family,
I was saddened when I heard about Jason. My teenaged son is a Hawks fan and especially of Jason. He will be missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
jaime williams
October 24, 2005
my thoughts and prayers are with you all always.i'm 29 and i lost my husband 3 years ago and we have 2 girls,1 boy.it is very hard be together still as one family you will need each other.always think and talk about how wonderfull he was and hold that close to you and that baby.you are in my heart!!!!
Amanda King
October 24, 2005
I never had the chance to meet Jason but Im sure he was a great guy. I remember hearing alot about him when I was in middle and high school. Being in the navy I hear all news late but I was shocked when my mom called me and told me about his passing. My thought and prayers are with the whole Collier family. Take care and keep your heads up Jasons watching. RIP Jason
Emily Halpin
October 24, 2005
Wow. Looking through this guest book it is obvious to me that Jason sure touched a lot of lives. I know that he touched mine and I can't begin to express the sadness I feel for his family and close friends. I am still in shock by all of this. I remember going to most of the basketball games when Cental won state in 1996. I would even go to games that were pretty far away with my Uncle Mike, my cousin Steve and my brother Joey, which was sometimes a big deal being a nerdy girl in junior high and all, but they were such a fun team to watch. I felt like a part of the team almost. I had these shamrock earings that had to be turned the right way so that they would do well. My friend Shannon always made sure they were turned the correct way when things didn't seem to be going their way. I remember all the big name coaches coming to the CCHS gym to watch Jason play. It was amazing. I remember the celebration Central had after they won state. I had this little green notepad and got the whole team's autograph's. After learning about what happened I looked for that notebook and actually found it. Looking through it I realized that Jason signed his name twice in it. I think that says a lot. Here he was signing all these autographs and took the time to sign mine twice. Jason did so much for the Catholic Central community and will be deeply missed. He won't just be missed for the talent he brought to the court, but what he brought to others lives. My cousin Steve has down's syndrome and Jason was his idol. He always talked about him. Steve turned 40 this year and had a huge party. He received some pretty awesome gifts, but the highlight of his day was the fact Jason, along with his wife and daughter, came. Steve's facial expression when Jason would come and talk to him was priceless. Steve would just light up whether he was talking to him or talking about him. Following Jason's career through Steve has been an incredible experience. He will be greatly missed but his legacy will definitely live on.
Jen Buck
October 23, 2005
Julie,
You may not remember me, I sat behind you at UT in a health class (possibly Dr. Jordan's Death and Dying class) and I remember you always talking about Jason. When I heard the news of his death I nearly fell to the ground. I couldn't believe that out of 5 people I met during college one of them was you, his sister. It was just really wierd. I feel horrible for you and the rest of your family. I can't say that I know how you feel because I don't. I do have a brother and I can't imagine ever losing him. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Please email me if you feel like chatting. I can also send my cell #. Please also let me know if you are still in Toledo, I imagine you've graduated by now. I will continue to pray for you and your family during this time. I am so sorry for your loss.
Jaymes Harlan
October 23, 2005
God bless the Collier family and friends
Christian Oebels
October 23, 2005
Dear Collier familiy,
I just came from holidays and I saw this message. I'm simply shocked and I can't say much more. I just can say that Jason will ever be in my memories.
Thanks, to a great NBA Player.
Christian Oebels
Mr & Mrs Thomas Geiger
October 22, 2005
Who was Jason Collier? He was a Basketball Star from Springfield.
He was also, A Wonderful Son, Brother, Husband and a Loving Father, and a Friend to a great many people.
We were shocked to hear about the passing of Jason. We remember seeing Jason around Springfield while he was younger. Following his basketball career in High School and then in College, he was definetly the pride of Catholic Central and Springfield. He never acted like he was special, we know the pain will be in all of your hearts for a long time. We hope as time goes by the pain will soften and wonderful memories replace some of the tears.
Our Prayers and thoughts will be with you all.
The Tom Geiger Family
Neely Yirak
October 22, 2005
Where do I start words can not express the sadness I feel for everyone who has had the opportunity to know Jason. I have had the opportunity to have known Jason for a extremely long time. I can remember days of watching Jason at their home in Northridge when my brother was always present because they were always together. My heart goes out to all of us who knew him not only on a personal level but on a professional level as well. Time will pass but Jason's life long memories will never be forgotten. We will never understand why God took Jason so prematurely,but we do know that one day we will see him again. Jason you will be sadly missed.
Tears will soon pass but the love for your son, brother, and husband will last for eternity.
Jennie (Miller) Colvin
October 22, 2005
Dear Collier Family,
I was saddened to read about Jason. I was one of his swim team coaches when he was little (in age that is, he was NEVER little) I will always remember his gigantic smile. The people in Springfield, Ohio will always remember him.
Beth Mcdermott
October 22, 2005
To The Collier Family
My thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you. Jason was a wonderful person. I remember coaching Julie in softball and Jason was always there to help be a base coach or anything that you needed him to help with. I followed the papers closely and was always amazed by Jason's accomplishments in basketball and life. Joyce, you had my Lindsey in kindergarten. I too know the grief of losing a child. There are no words to console you or make things easier from day to day right now. Just know that you are in my prayers and one day you will be reunited again. God had a much bigger plan for your wonderful son and God Bless you all.
Eleazar Cosme
October 22, 2005
My heart and prayers go out to the Collier family it was tragic to learn about the passing of Jason he will be missed by evryone may god rest his soul R.I.P. Jason you will be missed god bless.
Mark MeDong
October 21, 2005
I pray for the family and friends of this talented young man
Joe Tarantelli
October 21, 2005
I never actually got to meet Jason, but I felt like I knew him well. Going to college and rooming with Tyson, we heard plenty about Jason, on and off the court. I've followed his career like he was a high school teamate of my own, rooting for him no matter where he played. (those GT teams especially) It is a shame and a tragedy to lose someone so young, so talented, and so obviously loved by so many.
Jason, I will be thinking of your whole family, especially your wife and daughter, but do not worry, they will be taken care of, they will not be alone.
God bless.
Chris Barnett
October 21, 2005
To Katie, Ella, and the Collier family,
I would like to extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences. I was in a complete state of shock when I heard the news about Jason.
I fondly remember the wonderful afternoon last summer when I shared in the celebration of his contract signing at your lake house. I felt priveleged to not only meet you, but even be able to hold your beautiful daughter. It was a treat for me, when Jason and I told soccer stories from our younger days in Springfield. He was such a great guy and humble professional. I will pray for you and Ella during these tough times.
noretta justice
October 21, 2005
Like many who have sent their condolences I to was touched with many I have read. I to lost a son who was 25 and had a daughter 1 year old. Last night when I read the article in the Springfield News and Sun I thought of my granddaughter when I read what Jasons daughter said and I could not help but cry. God bless each of you.
Tanua Cole
October 21, 2005
No Person is Ever Truly Alone
No person is ever truly alone.
Those who live no more,
Whom we loved,
Echo still within our thoughts,
Our words, our hearts.
And what they did
And who they were
Becomes a part of all that we are,
Forever.
Mindy Smith
October 21, 2005
My condolences to Jason's wife and daughter, Ella. My sympathies to his dad, mom, sister and brother. I truly enjoyed watching Jason play whether it was at Catholic Central, IU, Georgia Tech, Rockets or Hawks. I was so proud of the 1996 SCC team that won the state title. Even though I was from KR i was proud because these boys were from Springfield. I knew then Jason was headed for bigger and better things. Jason was truly blessed with God given talent but more importantly God gave Jason a gentle spirit which he displayed every day. God truly broke the mold when he made Jason. I hate that Jason was taken at such a young age but marvel at all that he accomplished in 28 years. He was truly one of a kind and Springfield will miss him very much. Rest in Peace Jason Collier.
Mindy
Tracey Bloomfield
October 21, 2005
On behalf of the Bloomfield family, I would like to extend our deepest and heartfelt sympathies to the Collier and Weseman families. What a tremendous loss and Jason will surely be missed! We have such wonderful memories of Jason when he was at Catholic Central, IU, Georgia Tech and Atlanta. The excitement and happiness that he brought to our family over the years was amazing. From "draft night" in June of 2000, Katie and Jason's wedding in July of 2001 and not to mention my first NBA game in March of 2004 and everything in between. We were truly proud of him! We are equally as proud to have had to opportunity to share in those momentous occasions in Jason's life and they will surely never be forgotten!!!
To Katie: Our prayers will be with you always! Just know that God does indeed hold you in the palm of His hand and will comfort you in this time of great sadness. Know that the entire Catholic Central community is praying for your family during this time. God Bless you and little Ella.
With deepest sympathy,
Tom, Rose, and Tracey Bloomfield(CCHS '94)
Paul Midler
October 21, 2005
My eyes fill with tears, and my heart aches as I read many of these condolences. I too have lost a loved one, and I share your pain. May God bless you.
Sherry Kight
October 21, 2005
Dear Ella, Katie,Donna, Ed and the entire Collier Family,
I used to work with Donna in Alpharetta. I knew who Jason was long before she told me that he had married Katie. You see, I'm a big basketball fan. I'm a fan of the players who really play. Not the ones with all the "bling". I played basketball all the way through college. I played on a team of hard working,smart players(we had to be-our coach demanded a 3.0 average) The first time I saw Jason play was at a Georgia Tech game. I took my daughter and her friends to the game. He impressed me so much that I followed his career from that point on. When I finally got the chance to meet him in person...WOW...the man I met was exactly as I expected him to be. He was a gentle giant. He was what every mother wants her son to be. He doted on Katie. His love for her was evident in his eyes and his actions.
Katie, I know your heart is raw right now. When I lost Stephen in 1978 and I was pregnant with Stephanie, my entire world shut down. I want you to know that you can and will be able to do the things you have to do. You have a great support staff. Your mom and dad are TOPS! Your mom will walk over hot coals for you...mine did. Your dad is quiet like mine was, but trust me, his heart is as big as his smile. The Collier family, although I've never had the pleasure to meet them, are a great and beautiful family...I know because they raised and taught Jason to be the man you fell in love with. Keep your love alive in your heart and remind Ella everyday what a wonderful Daddy she has! He is there with her everywhere she goes. I love you guys and I hope to talk to you soon. If you need anything...and I do mean it...just call me! Rest in Peace, Jason, you are still my Hero!!!
Love you all,
Sherry Kight
Robert Sheltz
October 21, 2005
I never knew Jason, but after watching video of him I could see our Lord Jesus Christ was in his heart. Your loss is now heaven's gain , may God's peace be with those who mourn.
Nancy Richey
October 21, 2005
So sad to hear of Jason's death. I lost my brother a few weeks back and its such an empty feeling. No one knows until they have walked in your shoes of the pain. My brother was only 55 with no illness just never woke up. Doctor said it was heart attack. I feel the pain of your family but take comfort in knowing that although we cannot see Jason he is smiling down on us and we will see our loved ones again someday. God
Bless his family.
Benny Toler
October 21, 2005
My heart broke when I learned the news of this great young mans passing....no so much for him (I know he is in a better place now) as much as for his family and loved ones. I watched him grow and develop, first at Indiana University, then later at Ga. Tech, and always admired his work ethic and what a fine young man he grew to be...both on and off the court. I'll miss you Jason...but only for a little while.
Ben Toler
Indiana University class of 76
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