James Robert Collins

James Robert Collins, known to so many as "Big Jamey," passed away on March 16, 2026, in Knoxville, Tennessee, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 63 years old.

Born on October 25, 1962, in Erwin, Tennessee, Jamey was the kind of person who made an impression on everyone he met. Extremely smart, witty, and always ready with something to talk about, he had a way of drawing people in and making them feel welcome. He was generous to his core, always giving and never asking for anything in return.

Jamey proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was bold enough to jump out of airplanes. That fearless spirit carried him through every chapter of his life. He built a longstanding career as an X-ray field service technician, work that took him across the United States and into neighboring countries. But no matter how far he traveled, his greatest pride was becoming a father and building a life as a family man.

If it had an engine, Jamey loved it, and motorcycles held a special place in his heart. He was an avid enthusiast who never tired of the open road. He also spent time flying parasails on Norris Lake, always chasing that next thrill. Life with Jamey was never boring.

Jamey was preceded in death by his father, Robert Collins, and his mother, Frances Timbs.

He is survived by his sons, Bobby Collins and Dallan Reed; his daughter, Emily Collins; his sisters, Sherah Collins and Donna Collins; and his brother, Charles Collins, along with many other family members and friends who loved him dearly.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Bridges Funeral Home on Monday, March 23, 2026. Family and friends will meet at 1:45 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at East Tennessee State Veteran Cemetery for a 2:00 p.m. graveside service, with military honors.

Those who knew Jamey would agree he was truly a one of a kind person who touched many people in his lifetime. He will be unimaginably missed and will not be forgotten. We know he is tearing up those streets of gold on two wheels or flying helicopters with his dad. He'll live on in our hearts and memories forevermore. We love you dad, rest in peace.

Arrangements by Bridges Funeral Home, 5430 Rutledge Pike, Knoxville, TN 37924. www.bridgesfuneralhome.com