Tommy A. Collins, age 78, passed away peacefully at his home in Friendsville, TN Thursday, August 24, 2023. Tommy grew up in Jefferson City, TN and graduated from Jefferson High School, where he played trumpet in the band. He was drafted into the US Army and earned his Airborne Jump Wings while training as a medic. After discharge, he returned to the University of TN-Knoxville and earned his commission as a 2LT, while pursuing his accounting degree. Tommy continued to serve in the TN Army National Guard and the US Army Reserves for a total of 37 years of service, retiring as LT Colonel. He retired from TVA after 26 years of service as an accountant and auditor. Tommy enjoyed UT sports, especially football, as well as antique cars, Nascar races, and beach vacations.
Tommy is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Eddie.
Tommy is survived by his beloved wife, Sara Hillard Collins; sisters-in-law: Mary Ruth and Delores; brothers-in-law: James and Roy and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends Sunday, August 27, 2023 from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM in the chapel of McCarty Evergreen Funeral Home, 7426 Asheville Hwy, Knoxville, TN. Family and friends will meet Monday, August 28, 2023 at Eastview Memorial Gardens, 1320 Andrew Johnson Hwy, Strawberry Plains, TN for a 2:00 PM Graveside Service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs, 110 Tooweka Circle, Loudon, TN 37774 or a charity of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Mccartyevergreen.com for the Collins family.
