Ralph D. Collins Sr.

Ralph “Don” Collins was ushered into his Heavenly home by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on December 3rd, 2020, at the age of 89, after a short illness. Don was born on December 2nd, 1931, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Julian Anthony and Sadie B. Collins. He grew up in North Birmingham and attended school at Phillips High School. He was a life-long Alabama fan. Don spent four years in the United States Air Force, and then went on to work for ACIPCO where he retired after forty years. On March 7, 1952, he married his wife, Mary Elizabeth Barnett. They raised four sons, Donnie, Michael (Mike), Terry, and Greg.

Don was a member of East Gardendale Baptist Church where he spent many years serving as a Deacon. He had a passion for helping others. If there was a need, Don made himself available to do whatever he could to meet that need. He also loved working with his hands. From building homes to repairing minor leaks, Don worked his magic wherever he went.

Don enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He never hesitated to tell others about their accomplishments and recent stories of their visits. He was a man who was admired by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His wisdom, selflessness, and calm presence made him the rock of his family.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Julian Anthony and Sadie B. Collins; his brothers, Julian Clay (JC) and Harry Collins; his sisters, Christine Hooper and Jean Kay Wilson; his sons, Donnie and Greg Collins.

Don is survived by his wife, Mary Elizabeth Collins; his sons, Mike (Donna) Collins and Terry Collins; his daughter-in-law, Cindy Collins; his sisters, Betty Clark, Barbara Wilson, Eddie Lee (Mike) Smith; brothers, Tommy (Sandra) Collins, Robert (Debbie) Collins; his grandchildren, Michael (Jenni) Collins, Julian Collins, Jennifer Collins, Chasity (Tommy) Collins; 14 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 8th, 2020 at East Gardendale Baptist Church. Visitation will be held from 10:00am-11:00am. Services will be held at 11:00am with graveside immediately following at Oakwood Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to East Gardendale Baptist Church.