James David Collins

David was born on September 9th, 1946 in Utica, Mississippi to Marjorie and Carl Graves Collins Sr. He graduated from Utica High School in 1964 where he was an accomplished track and football player. David continued his studies and athletic career at Hinds Junior college playing quarterback, defensive back and running the mile for the track team.

David’s life and career took off when he met his wife Carolyn while she was teaching at Utica High School. They soon married and David went to work as a ticket agent for Illinois Central Gulf Railroad in Chicago, Illinois. During this time David was a member of the Army Reserves 1st Platoon A Company 7th BN 2nd BDE in Fort Jackson South Carolina. His commitment to the railroad landed him back to Mississippi in the Railroad Surveying Department completing a 17 year career with Illinois Central Gulf Railroad.

David went to work for Waggoner Engineering in 1986 as a Construction Representative in Brandon, MS. 36 years later, David has been able to see his projects reshape, open-up, and beautify many parts in the Jackson Metro Area. He was extremely proud to take part from the inception to the completion of many projects including Highland Colony Parkway, Jackson Metro Parkway, East Metro Parkway, Lake Harbour Drive, Lake Harbour Drive EXT, and finally his last project Rice Road EXT. Over his 36 year career at Waggoner, David has been blessed to work with outstanding co-workers, contractors and sub- contractors along with many municipalities and counties. His work ethic, commitment to detail, and his ability to figure out things on the go has set him apart in his respected field.

He is survived by his three children Michael Collins (Ashley), Stephanie Sanders (Chuck), Amy Gilmer and his seven grandchildren, Claire Hindsman, Luke Edwards, Logan Sanders, Cole Sanders, Pate Collins, Massa Collins and Beck Collins. He is also survived by his brother, Desi Lee Collins and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation for David will be held Thursday, June 9, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Parkway Funeral Home, 1161 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland, Mississippi 39157, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.parkwayfuneralhomeridgeland.com for the Collins family.