Ernest M. Collins, Jr.'s Obituary
Ernest M. Collins, Jr., age 92 of Gainesville passed away Saturday, April 27, 2024. He was born January 27, 1932, in Hollywood, FL to Ernest M. Sr. and Virginia I. Chapel Collins.
He proudly served in the United States Marines during the Korean conflict. Ernest graduated from the University of Florida. He worked in the Department of Agriculture for over 35 years. Ernest loved photography and he did the coaching filming for Florida Gator football team from 1965-1980. Ernest was a lifelong member of Waldo Baptist Church.
He is survived by his children, Melony Gay Collins-Hale (Gerard), Ernest Margue Collins III (Kelly Hoyt-Collins), Janet Romrell; brother, Timothy Jason Collins (Linda); four grandchildren, Marque Allen Collins, Gerard Hale III, Charles Joseph Hale, Lauren Elizabeth Collins; four great grandchildren, Madelyn, Riley, Olivia and Emily.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Collins, wife, Marilyn Collins and grandson, Christopher Alan Hale.
Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Waldo Baptist Church, 14370 S.R. 24. Waldo, FL 32694. The family will receive friends Tuesday, April 30, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Williams-Thomas Downtown, 404 North Main Street. Burial will follow at Forest Meadows East with military honors. For those who wish donations may be made in his memory to Waldo First Baptist Church.
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