JD Collins

Junior Dale "JD" Collins, 44, of Philippi, West Virginia, passed away unexpectedly on March 23, 2026. He was born on June 22, 1981, to the late Junior and Rebecca Collins. His passing has left a void that can never truly be filled, as he was taken far too soon from the people who loved him most.

JD was, above all else, a devoted father. His son, Iverson Collins, was the light of his life and the reason behind so many of his choices. Every decision he made, especially in recent years, reflected the deep love and pride he carried for his boy. He is also survived by his loving girlfriend, Jessica Blake, who stood beside him through life's moments both big and small.

He leaves behind his sisters, Ashley Foltz and her husband Josh, and Jamie Walter and her husband John, all of Philippi, WV, along with nieces Brianna Shackelford and her husband Alan, Ariella Walter, and Emberlyn Foltz, and nephews Brayson Beavers, Asher Walter, Connor Foltz, and Joshua Foltz. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, and cousins who will forever cherish his memory.

JD played a fatherly role in the life of Noah Gearhart, whom he loved as his own and helped guide through his teenage years. That bond reflected the kind of man JD was someone who stepped up, who cared deeply, and who gave his heart freely. He also leaves behind a special friend, Amanda Mayle, who held a meaningful place in his life.

JD worked hard throughout his life, spending years as a coal miner before turning to timbering so he could be more present for his son. That decision alone speaks volumes about the man he was he valued time with his family above all else. He found joy in the simple but meaningful things: time spent with loved ones, laughter shared with friends, and the freedom of the open road.

He had a spirit that couldn't be contained. JD loved to make people laugh, and his presence could light up any room. He had a wild side, a fearless nature, and a love for adventure. Whether he was riding his Harley, cruising in his side-by-side, working on cars, or building rail buggies from the ground up, he lived life with passion and without hesitation.

Life was not always easy for JD, but what defined him was not the setbacks he faced, it was how he rose from them. Time and time again, he got back up, kept going, and chose to live life to its fullest. He loved life, and he fought to keep living it, no matter what stood in his way.

JD will be remembered not for how he left this world, but for how he lived in it, with heart, with strength, with laughter, and with an undeniable love for his family. His life, though far too short, was full of meaning, and his memory will live on in every story told, every laugh shared, and every mile traveled in his honor.

Family and friends will be received at Kittle's Family Funeral Home in Philippi, West Virginia, on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM and on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Funeral services will be conducted at 12:00 PM with Pastor Lennie Minard Jr. In honoring JD's wishes, he will be cremated.

He was deeply loved, and he will be deeply missed, always.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made directly to Kittles Family Funeral Home to help offset funeral expenses on their website at www.kittlefamilyfh.com.