Bobby Collins

Robert "Bobby" Lafayette Collins, Jr. December 29, 1959 – October 24, 2025 Robert Lafayette Collins, Jr.-affectionately known as Bobby, or Bopper to his Marshall County family and friends, Bobco to his Memphis crew, and most recently and most proudly Boppy to his beloved grandchildren-went to his heavenly home on October 24, 2025, at the age of 65. Born December 29, 1959, in Sylacauga, Alabama, Bobby was a 1978 graduate of Briarcrest Christian School and attended both Mississippi State University and the University of Memphis. Bobby was always true to who he was and unapologetically himself. He was known as the life of the party-bringing laughter and joy wherever he went, whether with a good joke, cutting up on the dance floor, or entertaining with his love for karaoke, especially Elvis songs. A proud member of the "Super Swine Sizzlers" barbecue team, Bobby loved the camaraderie of competing at Memphis in May BBQ Festival for many years. He also shared a deep passion for Mississippi State football with his father, Red; many Saturdays were spent watching or talking football together. Bobby was a lover of music, especially classic rock and the band Rush. He could play almost any instrument he picked up, often picking out the notes just by ear, but he was best known for his drumming skills, whether banging out rhythms on his drum set or on the dashboard of his truck, and for his singing. He loved putting on a show and performing, even jumping behind the drums with the band at his daughter's wedding. Before he was even old enough to drive, Bobby started his own lawn care business, pedaling his bicycle and pulling his lawnmower to clients' yards. That early dedication grew into a lifelong career in landscape design, where his creativity and eye for detail shaped some of the most beautiful homes and businesses throughout the greater Memphis area and beyond. Of all his accomplishments, Bobby was most proud of being a father to his daughter, Kassie, and "Boppy" to his two grandchildren, Collins and Martha Kay. From many days spent with Kassie at barrel races to becoming a regular face at Marshall Academy where his grands attend school, he was always involved and their biggest supporter. He took immense pride in being Boppy-and they loved him so very much. Bobby leaves behind countless memories that those who knew and loved him will cherish forever. He was preceded in death by his mother, Anne Hunsucker Collins. Bobby is survived by his daughter, Kassie (Jeff) McAlexander; his treasured grandchildren, Collins and Martha Kay McAlexander; his father, Robert "Red" Collins; and his sisters, Tanya (Tim) Kirby, Geri (Tom) Breeden, and Kelly Collins. He also leaves behind three nieces-Elizabeth (Brock) Sain, Caitlyn (Brian) Bauslaugh, and Nicole (Chris) Robison-as well as two great-nephews and one great-niece. Funeral Services Brent Taylor Funeral Directors 534 West Poplar Ave., Collierville, TN • Visitation: Tuesday, October 28, 5:00–7:00 p.m. • Funeral Service: Wednesday, October 29, 11:00 a.m. • Graveside Service to follow at Slayden Cemetery Family and friends are invited for food and fellowship following the graveside service at Slayden Baptist Church