Franklin David Collins left this world for peaceful rest with our Heavenly Father on December the 3rd, in the year of our Lord, 2021. An expert mechanic, engineer, survivalist, handyman, joke-teller, secret-keeper, battery-installer, toy put-togetherer, and just real good at just about everything else a person could do, Frank spent his free-time tinkering in “the box” and working on that never-ending honey-do list. He worked harder than most to provide for his family, and always made sure that they had everything that they needed, as well as all of those things that they really didn’t need but wanted. He would give the shirt off of his back, an olive drab Hanes pocket t-shirt, to those that he loved, but he’d keep his camo pants and his combat boots just in case the SHTF.

“Mr. Christmas” always had a nickel and a dime in his pocket when the going got tough, and never let his kids or his wife go without. Always prepping, putzing, dreaming, cherishing the moments that many take for granted, keeping every drawing and picture in a special place, Frank will always be remembered as a man of many intricate facets, sharing different pieces of himself with those that needed him most in good time. He was a man of many talents and vast knowledge, but most of all he will be remembered for being the World’s Greatest Dad, Papaw, and Husband.

Frank was preceded in death by his Dad, Jesse Cletus Collins, his Papaw and Mamaw, John and Dorothy Pierce, Brother-in-Law John (Annette) Paterson, and Father-in-Law Jack Paterson. Frank is survived by his Mom, Trula Mae Collins (who loves him very much!), his Mother-in-Law, Veronica Paterson, his Brothers and Sisters, Gary (Janet), James (Kristi), Vickie (Gary), Connie (Al), Andrea (Dave), Diana, and many cherished nieces and nephews. He leaves his family: his Daughter Annabelle (Peepot) and her Fiancé Harrison (Han), and Yogurt Jones, his Daughter Emily (Scooter), son-in-law Adam, and their children – his Grandchildren – Vada Rose (Booboo Cake) and Jack Bjørn (Little Bear), his Son Zachary (Big Guy) and Daughter-in-Law Jodi, and their Children – his Grandchildren – Aiden and Alana, and his beloved Wife of 43 years, the mother of his children, World’s Best Meatloaf-maker, and the keeper of his house, Linda – his very own Wonder Woman.

Never did a truer man exist, with a real heart of gold. This world will never be the same for us, Daddy. We love you more than words can say. Forever and ever, and three more days. 10-4, BiggRed out. “Damn Skippy”.

Family will receive friends 11-12 Noon Saturday, December 18 at Cross-Smith Funeral Home with funeral service to follow at 12 Noon in Cross-Smith Chapel, Rev. Ronald Lambert officiating.  Interment to follow service at Wilson Cemetery in Speedwell. 

Condolences may be given online at http://www.cross-smithfuneralhome.com 

Arrangements by Cross-Smith Funeral Home

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