September 1, 1948 – May 22, 2025
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that the Collins family announces the passing of Jerry Frank Collins, a devoted husband of 56 years and the beloved patriarch of our family. Jerry passed away at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and hard work.
Born on September 1, 1948, in Humble, a suburb of Houston, Jerry developed an early passion for automobiles and engines—a passion that guided him through a dedicated career as a mechanic spanning over five decades. He worked for both Patin's Automotive and Tracy's Automotive in New Iberia, earning the trust and admiration of countless clients. Jerry was known for his meticulous work, unwavering integrity, and generous heart. Even beyond the workplace, he freely offered his skills to help others, never asking for payment—only wanting to lend a hand.
When not in the garage, Jerry embraced a simple yet fulfilling life. He shared his love of antique and muscle cars with his family and was once the proud owner of a 64 Thunderbird and a 70 Chevelle. Car shows were a highlight of his calendar, and his enthusiasm for the craft never faded.
Jerry also enjoyed fishing with the boys at Spanish Lake when they were younger—despite rarely catching any fish—woodworking, reading about history, and watching classic movies and historical programs. But above all else, Jerry’s greatest devotion was to his family. He lived selflessly to ensure their happiness and security, and he leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love and strength.
Though we mourn his loss, we take comfort in our faith, knowing he is not gone forever, only gone ahead. We hold tight to the hope of being reunited one day. Until that day, rest well, Jerry. We love you deeply and miss you dearly.
Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Gale Tenney Collins; his children, William Collins and wife Dawn, Chris Collins, and Shelley Collins Roy and husband Ed; his grandchildren; Courtney Theriot and husband Oscar, Melissa Collins, Matthew Collins, and Kristen Wallace and husband Justin; his great-grandchildren, Layton Theriot, Averie Theriot, Hayden Wallace, and Ares Wallace; his half-sister: Barbara "Bobbie" Luke; and his niece, Tammy Luke Watson.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Collins and Iris LeBlanc Bergeron; his half-brothers, Bobby Joe Collins and Raymond Collins; his brother-in-law, Kenny Luke; and his in-laws, Allen Tenney, Sr. and Bertha Hanks Tenney.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at St. Peter's Catholic Church, with Fr. Nathan Comeaux officiating. Jerry will be laid to rest at Bridge Cemetery following the service.
Family and friends are invited to Evangeline Funeral Home for visitation on Monday, May 26, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with the Rosary recited at 6:30 PM. Visitation will resume on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until 1:30 PM.
Serving as pallbearers are Chris Collins, Oscar Theriot, Ricky Tenney, Randy Tenney, Justin LaBiche, and Robbie Watson. Honorary pallbearers include William Collins, Ed Roy and Preston Hebert.
The Collins family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Belle Teche Nursing and Rehab and to Heart of Hospice for the love, care and compassion shown to Jerry while in their care. You are all greatly appreciated.
Relatives and friends are encouraged to share their memories and condolences by visiting Jerry’s memorial page at www.evangelinenewiberia.com
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia has been entrusted with the arrangements.
