Robert Douglas Collins, aged 76 years, passed peacefully into Heaven on Thursday, December 9, 2021. Preceded in death by his bride of fifty-three years, Linda Rose Collins, and parents Robert and Mary Faye Collins, and brother Ricky Collins. He is survived by his two sons, five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, four brothers, and four sisters.
Known as “The Man with the World’s Most Contagious Laugh,” he enjoyed sharing the joy and happiness in this life with others. Never knowing a stranger, he was instantly friends with everyone he knew. A natural showman, he reveled in getting a group of people to begin laughing. From the cotton fields of Arkansas as a child, he eventually travelled the world. Whether laughing in Toronto or New York City at the debut of a documentary, or visiting London as a guest of the Royal Society, or being invited by a member of the Royal Court in Africa to travel and share his gift, he remained humble, thankful, and grateful. He touched people all over the world with his laugh, love and compassion, and they loved him for it.
His family will receive visitors on Friday December 17, 2021 from 5pm-7pm at Collierville Funeral Home. His memorial service will be held on Saturday December 18, 2021, at 10am, followed by a private graveside service with his family.
In lieu of flowers, his family asks friends to consider a donation to Boy Scout Troop 81, c/o First United Methodist Church, 804 Montvale Station Rd, Maryville TN 37803.
