John Collins was born on November 2, 1922 in Talula, Mississippi to Dave and Irene Collins. He was next to the youngest of 8 siblings. In his early years, John served in the United States Navy from 1941 to 1945. John worked on the family farm until he relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He married Susan Johnson there in 1947, and from this union, 4 children were born: Sharron, Nora Jean, Linda and Michael. John started off in the farming industry for 9 years. For over 50 years, John was the master chef for the John McSorley family of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His other accomplishments were being a contractor until he retired. John Collins started off as a junior deacon at the tender age of 17. He faithfully served as Deacon John Collins in this ministry of Christian faith. He has served in well over six Baptist churches, with his final deaconship at the Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Johnson City, TN. Deacon Collins has mentored more than 36 deacons in his lifetime. Deacon Collins served the Lord continuously with his reprect, wisdowm and Love of God and the fellowhip of believers in his heart. Deacon Collinss was preceded in death by his wife Susan Collins and daughter Nora Jean Collins. Deacon Collins is survived by devoted daughter Sharron, Linda Holland and Michael Collins, along with 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Funeral services will be held at 12:30 PM on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at the Birchette Mortuary Chapel. The family will receive friends from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the chapel, prior to the services. Burial will follow at the Mountain Home National Cemetery, Johnson City, TN.
