Ronald Stephen Collins

Ronald Stephen “Ron” Collins, from Woodstock, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, October 5th, after a short illness. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia “Pat” Collins; his mother, Mary Evelyn Roach; his father, John Thomas Collins; and his sister, Edana Cernut Nix.

 He is survived by his sister, Cheryl Shaver of Zebulon, GA; his children, Barbara (Rick) Moser, Terri (Terry) Kirby, Sherry (Steve) Strickland, and Jim (Debra) Hoffman; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; nephews Owen and John; and nieces Stephanie and Stacy. 

Ron lived at Brickmont Assisted Living Facility in Woodstock, GA, where he was part of the Welcoming Committee, greeting new residents and making them feel at home. He was also part of the Wake-Up Committee, walking down the hallways singing and encouraging residents to start their day. He represented the community at regular meetings with facility staff and took those roles very seriously, always having a heart for serving others. Ron was born in Atlanta, GA, on April 6, 1950. He graduated from Sylvan Hills High School in 1969, where he played football. Ron served in the U.S. Navy from 1969 through 1971. After leaving the Navy, he worked at Emory University for over 20 years.

He was a devoted family man who strongly believed that what was on the inside of a person counted more than what was on the outside. He loved spending time with his family, and his favorite title was “PopPop,” a name given to him by his grandchildren. He visited family often, including traveling to South Florida to spend Christmas and special occasions with some of his great-grandchildren. He was loved greatly, and his family will miss him deeply, but we rejoice in the Lord, knowing that our beloved Ron, AKA “PopPop,” is in heaven, resting in the arms of Jesus.

Ron will be laid to rest at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Ga. with full military honors on Thursday, December 4th at 3:00 pm. A celebration of life is also being planned and will be announced at a later date.