Geraldine “Jerry” Greene Collins, 82, was born August 9, 1943, in Morristown, Tennessee, and passed away May 14, 2026 after complications of recent illnesses. Of the Baptist faith, Jerry will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude for a life marked by steadfast devotion to those she loved and a giving spirit that was felt in quiet, enduring ways.
Jerry was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Collins; her father, David Greene Sr.; her mother, Edna Blanton Greene; and her brothers, Kenneth Edward “Eddie” Greene and David Louis Greene Jr.
Those who survive include her nephew, Michael D. Greene (Elizabeth J. Greene), and her grandniece, Caitlin E. Greene, all of Knoxville. Special mention goes to close friends Lisa and Gary Burgin and family, who provided much love and support over the years, especially since Leroy's passing.
For many years, Jerry and her late husband, Leroy, shared a strong commitment to community through their decades-long membership in the Kerbela Shriners in Knoxville, along with their affiliation with the Morristown Masonic Lodge #231 F&AM. In these ties, Jerry and Leroy both found an outstanding outlet to give back to those who were disadvantaged and needing help and grace.
Jerry will be fondly remembered as someone who was fiercely independent, unendingly loyal to her family and friends and always giving of her time. Her favorite days were spent outside, in the warmth of the sun, tending to her plants, painting, or keeping her mind sharp doing puzzles. She was constantly active, and to no longer see her working to improve the world around her, leaves us all diminished. Unquestionably, her loyalty and generosity found steady expression—through presence, support, and a sincere regard for the people and purposes she held dear.
Visitation for family and friends will be held Wednesday, May 20th from 12:00PM-2:00PM at Stubblefield Funeral Home, with the funeral service to follow at 2:00PM. Jerry will be laid to rest, with her beloved Leroy, at Hamblen Memory Gardens & Mausoleum, 5421 E Andrew Johnson Hwy, Morristown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriner’s Hospital; Kerbela Shrine, Knoxville; or Masonic Lodge #231, Morristown.
