Mr. George Branan Collins, III

Mr. George Branan Collins, III, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully on Friday, September 26, 2025, at his residence in Concord, Georgia, surrounded by his loving family. He was 84. 

He was born on February 1, 1941, in Byron, Georgia, to the late George Branan Collins, Jr. and the late Janie Eppinger Collins. An alumnus of Lanier High School in Macon, Georgia, George graduated in 1959 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of North Georgia in 1963. He continued his education at Georgia State University, where he received his Master’s degree in English in 1972. His academic achievements reflected his love for reading, writing, and poetry- passions that fueled both his personal and professional life. George was a dedicated public servant. He began his career with the Fulton County Juvenile Court, ultimately serving as the Chief Probation Officer. While employed by Fulton County, he played a crucial role in establishing the Mediation Program. He continued his contributions and his career as a District Court Administrator of the 9th Judicial District. He was instrumental in helping initiate the first Drug Court in North Georgia, underscoring his commitment to justice and rehabilitation. Upon retirement, he received the Liberty Bell Award given by the Bar Association for both Hall County and Forsyth County. George’s dedication extended beyond his career; he served honorably in the United States Army as a First Lieutenant from 1964 to 1966, graduating from the United States Army Intelligence School, followed by service in the Reserves until 1969. George had a zest for life that was evident in his hobbies, which included gardening, woodworking- both splitting and whittling- fishing, and his lifelong passion for reading and writing. He will be remembered as a good Christian man, a testimony to the values he lived by. 

George was a devoted husband to Judy Caroline Collins, with whom he shared 62 wonderful years. He took immense pride in his family, cherishing his daughters, Natalie (Jeff Kensmoe) Collins of Jacksonville, Alabama, and Jeannine (Nathan) Fuller of Hillsboro, along with his son Patrick (Carlena) Collins of Bethlehem. He was a loving brother to Phil (Kathy) Collins of Johns Creek, and a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Seth Collins, Claire (Elijah) Garcesa, Jacob (Savannah) Roberts, Bryn Kensmoe, Aemelia Kensmoe, Blake Collins, and Caroline Fuller. He also enjoyed two great-grandchildren, Carter Garcesa and Ellie Roberts, and leaves behind several cousins, nieces, and nephews. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Nicholas Branan Collins, as well as his siblings Michael Collins and Kay Benge. His passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew him, and he will be remembered for his warmth, humor, kindness, and heartfelt dedication to his family.

 A memorial service for Mr. Collins with military honors will be held Saturday, October 25, at 2:00 PM at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. Visitation with family will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to “Angels of Eternal Hope” at www.eternalhopehospice.com/donate. 

The family would like to thank his loving caregivers, Leigh Blum and Loretta Rakestraw, as well as the wonderful staff and caregivers of Eternal Hope Hospice, including Lori, Lori Beth, Tiffany, Kelsey, Sharon, Lejeune, and Amy. 

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.