John Brooks Collier

John Brooks Collier, 76, a lifelong resident of Brandon, MS, passed away on December 21, 2024, with his loving wife, Barbara, by his side. Born in Jackson, MS, on July 31, 1948, John was the only child of Walter Brooks Collier, Jr. and Florence Earle May Collier. 

John was a superb athlete who lettered in high school, participating in all sports, including football, baseball, basketball, and track. He graduated from Brandon High School in 1966, receiving several awards for his athletic skills. John earned the nickname “Bull” in junior high school. While John never divulged how he earned his nickname, his friends and family surmised that it was from his tackling prowess in football.

John received a four-year athletic scholarship to the University of Mississippi where he played tackle for the Ole Miss Rebel football team. He became a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity and enjoyed his college years, graduating in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business.

Following college, John worked with Morrow Realty in Brandon, MS as an appraiser and real estate agent. Later in life he established Collier Farms, Inc., engaging in planting and harvesting row crops, raising cattle, and managing timber. 

John was a member of Brandon First Methodist Church and a past member of the Rankin County Farm Bureau Board of Directors. He was also a long-time member of the Metropolitan Supper Club and served as treasurer of the Brandon Historical and Genealogical Society for more than 20 years. 

John met and married the love of his life, Barbara Broome Collier, in 1993. In their early years of marriage, they enjoyed many nights of dining and dancing at the supper club. Upon marrying Barbara, John also became a member of a loving, extended family. Barbara and he hosted many gatherings at their home for family and friends. 

John thoroughly enjoyed watching sporting events, whether in person or remotely. Every Thanksgiving, John would root for his beloved Rebels in the Egg Bowl while some of his in-laws loudly cheered for the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Whether in victory or defeat, a fine meal after the game would be enjoyed by all. 

In the last year, John’s battle with health issues became significantly more difficult. His innate tenacity and the constant love and caregiving of his wife of 31 years kept him going through many challenging days. Sincere appreciation is extended to those special caregivers who attended to his needs and assisted in his care during this last year. 

John was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Brooks Collier, Jr. and Florence Earle May Collier. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Broome Collier, and numerous cousins.

Visitation will be Sunday, December 29, 3:00-6:00 p.m., at Ott & Lee Funeral Home in Brandon, MS. A Celebration of Life service will be held Monday, December 30, at 11:00 a.m. at Brandon First Methodist Church followed by interment at Old Brandon Cemetery in Brandon, MS.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in remembrance of John’s life are suggested to one of the following organizations or another charity of the donor’s choice:

Brandon First Methodist Church
205 Mary Ann Dr, Brandon, MS 39042
601-825-5958

Children’s Advocacy Centers of Mississippi
Post Office Box 5348, Jackson, MS 39296
601-940-6183, https://www.childadvocacyms.org/