Riley Burnett Collins, Sr., 91, died Thursday, January 8, 2026. A graveside service will be held at Parkway Funeral Home on Highland Colony Parkway in Ridgeland on Saturday, January 24, at 2:00 p.m. preceded by a visitation at 1:00 p.m.
Raised in Biloxi, Mississippi, Collins was the son of James Edward and Ruth Elder Collins. He graduated from Biloxi High School in 1952. He attended the University of Southern Mississippi prior to joining the Army. Before his deployment to Italy, he married Marilyn Ericksen, his childhood sweetheart he met in first grade. In Italy he served his country playing the trombone in the Army band. He later finished his business degree at Mississippi College.
Collins’ 30-year career in life insurance was with the Equitable Agency. He obtained hs CFU and CRC certifications. He was an agent, District Manager and, then, an Agency Manager in Memphis.
The couple had settled in Jackson, where they raised their three sons. Collins instilled in them his love of sailing, traveling, music and corny jokes. He wholeheartedly supported all his children’s activities, including Cub Scouts, Little League Baseball, swim team, soccer and band.
He and Marilyn attended First Presbyterian Church of Jackson for more than 30 years. He participated in and led an Explorer's Bible Study group for many years. He was firmly rooted in faith and believed in helping others develop their faiths through example.
In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by two of his sons, Eric and Brian; his brother Edward and sisters Patricia McElroy and Jeri Woolley.
He is survived by his son, Riley Collins, Jr. and his wife, Lauri, of Flowood and five grandchildren: Riley Collins, III of Annapolis, Maryland; MariMac Collins, M.D. of St. Louis, MO; Jack Collins of Dallas,TX, Caitlin Collins and Jon Collins, both of Salt Lake City, Utah; and other nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family is grateful to all who impacted Riley’s life positively, especially medical and residential staff in later life.
Donations in lieu of flowers are requested to be made to Blair Batson Children’s Hospital, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, 39216, or the charity of your choice.
