Michael "Mike" Collins

Michael Bruce "Mike" Collins was born on March 19, 1973, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, to Bruce and Jennie (Ross) Collins. He grew up in the Vian area and graduated from Vian High School. In his younger years, he enjoyed working with and breaking horses, something that reflected his hardworking nature and love for the outdoors. He later earned his commercial driver's license in Drumright, Oklahoma, and went on to work as a ready-mix truck driver for Bull Tuff Mud Ready Mix, LLC, where he remained employed until his health began to decline in recent years. He shared many great years working for Jerry and Tracy Halpain and was grateful for their friendship and everything they did for him and others.

On February 23, 2009, Mike married Rebecca “Becky” Lorene Drywater in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Together, they built a life centered around family, love, and the simple pleasures that meant so much to him. Mike was a man who enjoyed the outdoors and found happiness in the everyday moments of life. He loved fishing, spending time with his family, and especially being around his grandchildren. Few things brought him more joy than watching his grandkids play ball, and he enjoyed every opportunity to cheer them on and be part of their lives. At home, Mike could often be found riding his lawn mower and tending to his yard, sometimes even when the grass didn't need cutting. Taking care of his place was something he genuinely enjoyed. He also treasured time spent with his dog, Basil, affectionately known as "his buddy," who was a constant companion. Mike was a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan and enjoyed watching his favorite team play. He also appreciated a good meal and especially enjoyed visiting Linney Breaux's and El Molcajete. Whether he was fishing, watching football, working in the yard, or simply visiting with family, Mike found contentment in the things and people he loved most.

Mike was a proud member of the Cherokee Nation and the Red Bird Ceremonial Grounds. He was baptized in the Christian faith and was a member of Four Corners Church in Peggs, Oklahoma. His faith, Cherokee heritage, and love for his family were important parts of his life and helped shape the man he was. Above all else, Mike loved his family. He was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who cherished the time he spent with those closest to him. On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, the Lord called this good and faithful servant home at the age of 53 years old. The memories made around family gatherings, at ballgames, and during everyday visits will remain special to those who knew and loved him.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce Collins and Jennie (Ross) Collins; his brother, Robert Bruce Collins; his son-in-law, J.J. Barnett; and his mother-in-law, Lorene Drywater.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Becky Lorene (Drywater) Collins, of the home; his son, Issac Collins and Rachel of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; his daughter, Sara Barnett of Bunch, Oklahoma; his two brothers, David Wayne Collins of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and Roger Dale Collins of Blackgum, Oklahoma; and his six beloved grandchildren, Hayden Barnett, Baylie Barnett, Hayden Collins, Kayden Collins, Hailey Collins, and Kylen Christie. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many friends who will dearly miss him.

Mike will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love of the outdoors, his devotion to his family, and the happiness he found in life's simple pleasures. The family will forever treasure the love, laughter, and memories Mike leaves behind. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services for Mike will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Reed-Culver Chapel in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, with Brother Phil Buford officiating. Jerry Halpain, Chris Holmes, and Issac Collins will also participate in the service. Burial will follow at Pumpkin Center Cemetery in Proctor, Oklahoma. Serving as pallbearers will be John Roberts, Sergio Celis, Robbie Bryant, John Ross, Dave Crawford, and Mika Calico. Honorary pallbearers will be J.D. Teehee, Issac Collins, Hayden Barnett, Roger Collins, and David Collins.