Edward Odell Collins Sr.

Edward Odell Collins Sr., 76, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 24th, 2025.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Wilkerson Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Loftis officiating. The family will receive friends from 6-8 P.M. at the funeral home on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, and other times at the family home. The graveside committal will follow the service at Reidlawn Cemetery. 

Ed was born in Rockingham County to the late William Ed Collins and Mabel Frances Mansfield Collins. Family was at the center of Ed’s world. He built a life rooted in love, laughter, and hard work, always putting the needs of others before his own. Whether it was offering a helping hand, sharing wise advice, or making everyone laugh with his easygoing humor, he had a way of making those around him feel valued and cared for. He dedicated his career as an electrician, working for Adam’s Electric for 25+ years, using his skills and steady hands to brighten the lives of others in more ways than one. He took pride in his work, but his greatest accomplishments were the relationships he built and the family he cherished. Ed had a deep love for bluegrass and country music, often found tapping his foot to a familiar tune or humming along while working on a project. Music was one of the many ways he expressed joy—a joy that he shared freely with his family and friends. His love leaves a legacy that will continue to guide and comfort those he held dear.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Edward Collins Jr.; sisters, Barbara “Pete” Collins, Frances Todd, Judy Stephens and Lill Ward.

Ed is survived by his wife of 58 years, Linda Ward Collins; children, Kenneth “Peanut” Collins (Tina) and Gayle Collins (special friend, Danny); grandchildren, Ashley (Kenneth), Magen (Dennis), Malanie (Christian), Destiny (Landon), Brianna (Hannah), Chaden, Karsynn; 9 great grandchildren; sister, Betty Jean Hodges (Elridge) along with numerous nieces, nephews and a large and loving group of extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant View Assembly of God at 10792 Cherry Grove Road, Reidsville, NC, 27320.