Carl David "Zeb" Collins I, age 83, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, in Clermont, Florida. Born on August 30, 1942, in Knoxville, Tennessee, David lived a life marked by service, entrepreneurship, and devotion to his family.
David was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. His military career took him to Amarillo, Texas; Charleston, South Carolina; and as far as Thule, Greenland.
After completing his military service, David began a career in sales. With an entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering determination, he founded Southern Star Wholesale Company. Under his leadership, the company served communities across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Georgia for over 25 years.
Beyond his professional endeavors and dedication to family life, David had a passion for coaching youth basketball. For many years he mentored young athletes through local, state, and national tournaments—leaving a lasting impact on countless lives both on and off the court. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he was also a die-hard fan of the Tennessee Volunteers and the Atlanta Braves.
David's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Brenda Claudette Collins; daughter Brenda Barker (Jim); sons Carl Collins (Lacey) and Jeff Collins (Keisha); sister Nancy Christian (Phil); and ten beloved grandchildren. He was especially proud of his children and grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Pauline and Carl Collins, as well as his sister Sue Collins.
A private memorial service and scattering of ashes will be held by the family at a later date. The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the dedicated nurses, caregivers and staff at The Mike Conley Hospice House for their guidance and compassionate care.
In honor of David's memory, donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, The Lewy Body Dementia Association, or The Mike Conley Hospice House in Clermont, Florida.
David was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. His military career took him to Amarillo, Texas; Charleston, South Carolina; and as far as Thule, Greenland.
After completing his military service, David began a career in sales. With an entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering determination, he founded Southern Star Wholesale Company. Under his leadership, the company served communities across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Georgia for over 25 years.
Beyond his professional endeavors and dedication to family life, David had a passion for coaching youth basketball. For many years he mentored young athletes through local, state, and national tournaments—leaving a lasting impact on countless lives both on and off the court. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he was also a die-hard fan of the Tennessee Volunteers and the Atlanta Braves.
David's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Brenda Claudette Collins; daughter Brenda Barker (Jim); sons Carl Collins (Lacey) and Jeff Collins (Keisha); sister Nancy Christian (Phil); and ten beloved grandchildren. He was especially proud of his children and grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Pauline and Carl Collins, as well as his sister Sue Collins.
A private memorial service and scattering of ashes will be held by the family at a later date. The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the dedicated nurses, caregivers and staff at The Mike Conley Hospice House for their guidance and compassionate care.
In honor of David's memory, donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, The Lewy Body Dementia Association, or The Mike Conley Hospice House in Clermont, Florida.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Carl Collins, please visit our flower store.
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