Barry Alan Collins

Barry Alan Collins born November 1, 1946 in Jacksonville, FL, age 78, passed away on November 22, 2024 after a long battle with cancer.
Barry is survived by his wife Ann Collins of forty-five years and numerous loved ones including; his sister Tammy (Bruce) Provin, brother-in-law Rick Blanchard, niece Chere (Lawrence) Pastureau, niece Jamie (Elias) Nevarez, nephew Bryan (Naomi) Pope, and great nieces and nephews Levi, Eli, Mason, Bryana, Noa, and Andrew.
Barry was a faithful member at Southpoint Baptist Church since August 1, 1993. He was often Deacon of the month. He has been as a Sunday School Teacher, shuttle bus driver, cooked for many events, and volunteered his time wherever needed. He went to Ecuador and Haiti a couple of times for mission work. His favorite scripture was Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.
Barry graduated from Terry Paker High School in 1964. Shortly after graduation, he joined the Air National Guard. He served in the Air National Guard for 31 years. He retired in 1998 as a Master Sergeant (E7). He was a nondestructive technician and worked as an inspector and instructor. To receive the extra retirement for 2 extra years of service, he had to enroll in college. He enrolled in a dental program. After his retirement, he continued to work at the Naval Air Station Jacksonville as an instructor for many years.
Barry played guitar and sang in the Liberty Express Band which was a Blue Grass, Gospel, and patriotic band. They played at many churches, schools, nursing homes, and events around town. Barry did an amazing Patrick Henry "Give me liberty, or give me death" impression in full costume which showed his love of country and God.
Barry loved God, his country, sports, hunting, camping, fishing, and golf. He also loved to cook for his family, friends, church, his lodge, and at home. He was a comedian, actor, singer, musician, and jokester. Everyone who met Barry felt the love he showed. He had a special gift to make you feel special and loved.
Barry was a Freemason at Solomon Lodge No. 20 at 25 East 1st Street in the Barnett Mansion in historic Springfield. In February 2015, Barry performed his Patrick Henry speech for the Arlington Lodge No. 309. He was also a worshipful master at Francis T. Hurlbert lodge #259. He had a bronze Good Citizenship Medal from the National Society of The Son of The American Revolution.
Barry was so loved and will be missed terribly by his loving, devoted wife, the entire family, and his countless friends. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 between the hours of 6-8PM at George H. Hewell and Son Funeral Home, 4140 University Boulevard, South Jacksonville, FL 32216.
The funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 11AM at SouthPoint Baptist Church, 3335 Tiger Hole Road Jacksonville, FL 32216 with Dr. Terry N. Collins officiating.