Gary Anthony Collins
Gary Anthony Collins
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Gary Anthony Collins Obituary
Gary left his earthly residence to join his wife and forever-41-year-old son in eternal life on September 12, 2025. He was born in Greenville, SC, on December 27, 1940, to Ernest Edward and Ruby Hayden Collins.
He grew up in the Judson Mill area of Greenville, SC, where he excelled in baseball and basketball during his youth and high school years. He turned down Furman University's recruiting offers to marry Patricia, the love of his life and wife for 62 years. His impressive automotive skills fueled his success at Collins Auto Wrecking. He was a history buff with an uncanny ability to recall obscure events and dates, an avid fan of golf and auto racing, a fondness for all creatures great and small, and a man of faith. But, most notably, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, Papa, and friend. "A father's love is forever imprinted on his child's heart" (Jennifer Williamson) will be his enduring legacy.
He leaves behind a daughter, Michelle Collins Page (Pete) of Isle of Palms, a son, Gary Anthony Collins, Jr. (Sondra Hellund) of Greenville, and grandchildren Pete (Elena), Patrick, and Eleanor Page; Asher Collins, and Thomas Strange. His sister, Gail Tollison, survives him, as do his nephews, Chris Tollison (Stephanie), Court Heath, and Heather Adams (Bryan). He is predeceased by his wife, Patricia Faulkner Collins, son, Brock Duane Collins, and his adored sister-in-law, Martha Faulkner Heath, and her husband, Buddy.
Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 13th, at Rock Springs Baptist Church in Easley, SC. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory to Rock Springs Baptist, or to Life Beyond Kennels, Pete and Elena's non-profit animal rescue in Fries, Virginia, are appreciated.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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