James Eric Collins

James Eric Collins, 54, of Sandy, Utah, formerly of Jackson, died Thursday, February 14, after a battle with cancer. A Funeral service will be held in the Chapel of First Presbyterian Church of Jackson on Thursday, February 21 at 10:00 a.m. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am.

Eric graduated from Jackson Preparatory and Mississippi State University. He then studied at the Memphis Culinary School at L’Ecole Culinaire. He began his career as a chef with Valley Foods in Jackson at the Colonial Country Club. His career included all aspects of food service including retail, health care, university and a sports venue. He moved to Sandy, UT to take a position, at the E-Center, a venue for the Salt Lake Olympics in 2002.

Eric had a passion for food and enjoyed sharing his cooking experiences with others. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors with his family.

He is a former member of Christ United Methodist Church, and was a member of the Methodist Church in Sandy, UT.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Brian Harold Collins. He is survived by wife Elizabeth, daughter Caitlin and son Jonathan, all of Sandy, his parents Riley and Marilyn Collins of Flowood, brother, Riley Collins, Jr., niece, MariMac Collins and nephews Riley III and Jack Collins of Ridgeland.

Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 1390 N. State St., Jackson, MS 39202 or to a charity of choice. Online guestbook www.wrightferguson.com