Donald Collier's journey began on May 21, 1934, in Omaha, Nebraska, born to Lucille and Clarence Collier. Unexpectedly on August 7th, 2023, at 89 years old he peacefully passed away, just days after celebrating the birthday of his wife of 62 years, Gail Callaway Collier.
Raised in Monett, Missouri, Don's passion for sports ignited early. Excelling in high school sports—golf, football, baseball, track, and basketball. He pursued his love for golf by joining the University of Missouri’s golf team. Don was a business graduate and dedicated member of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. Don's journey continued as he was drafted into the army where he was invited to be a running back on the US Army Football Team. Following serving his country, Don returned home to marry his lifelong partner, Gail Callaway, in St. Louis, Missouri during the summer of 1961. After successful careers for both Rawlings and Reliance Insurance Agency, Don founded his own agency Don Collier Claims, LLC, which he owned until retirement.
As an avid golfer, Don won the New Orleans Public Links Championship in 1966 and also placed in the US Amateur Championship. Notably defying age, he has two hole-in-ones, achieving the remarkable feat at 78 and 80 years of age. Don's dedication to an active lifestyle was a lifelong pursuit; even at the age of 89, he continued to go to the driving range and insisted on mowing his backyard himself.
Don was a Tulane Football season ticket holder for the last 50 years and rarely missed a game. He loved to watch sports, seldom resisted indulging in desserts, read the paper daily, and consistently graced us with his infectious humor and witty remarks. He is survived by his beloved wife, Gail, three children—Denise Collier Killeen and her husband Joe, Susan Collier Wolf, and Christian Collier—and grandchildren, Kaitlyn (Katie) Killeen, Matthew Wolf, Abbey Killeen, and Benjamin (Ben) Wolf; all of whom he was extremely proud of and who brought him great joy.
His life will be remembered and prayerfully celebrated on Monday, August 14th, 2023 at Leitz-Egan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie. Visitation will be held from 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 1:00 pm.
Burial to follow at Greenwood Cemetary.
