Craig Edward Collier

Craig Edward Collier passed away on June 28, 2026, at the age of 76, in the warmth of his bed and the care of his daughter. He was born August 25, 1949, in New Orleans, LA to John Collier and Elaine Beler Collier. Brother to Wayne Collier and Kim Mangerchine.

He is survived by his children, Amy Waldmann, Virginia DeLaTorre, Jason Collier, Benjamin Collier, and the mother of his children, Maria Collier. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Fallon, Quinn, Titus, Collier, Isabella, Gabriella, Elena, Vanessa, Ashton, Gisele, Dominic, and Vincent.

Craig served as a member of the National Guard. He was a lifelong entrepreneur whose ambition, creativity, and determination led him to build numerous businesses across a variety of industries. While his entrepreneurial spirit touched many ventures, his life’s work and greatest professional passion was in the retail Christmas tree industry. He found his deepest peace in the mountains of North Carolina.

His personality was infectious and he had an unmistakable presence that could light up any room. The life of every gathering, he had a gift for making people laugh, and turning ordinary moments into lasting memories. His quick wit, sense of humor, and positive outlook on life were gifts he shared freely with everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was a loving father and grandfather who treasured every moment he spent with his children and grandchildren. Craig was truly one of a kind. His kindness, generosity, humor, resilience, and unwavering love for others created a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and lovingly celebrated by the family and friends

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. New Orleans, LA. Visitation will be held from 9AM-11AM with a service to begin at 11AM. Inurnment will immediately follow at Metairie Cemetery.

A reception celebrating Craig's life will follow at The Blue Crab in New Orleans from 1PM - 3PM.