Donald Nathaniel Collins

Donald Nathaniel Collins (Captain) left his earthly home for eternity on December 10, 2023 at Bronson Hospital in Battle Creek. Donald was born February 21, 1932 in Birmingham, AL. through the union of Nathen Collins and Ethel Knight.

Donald Married Gladys Coleman in the early 1950’s in Albion, Michigan. To this union one son was born Chester Stevie Collins. Donald remarried in the late 1980’s to Odessa Smith while in Chicago, ILL.

Donald was a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Fred Alexander Jr. Donald was a kind and generous God-fearing man. Donald loved Bethel even when he lived in Chicago he would faithfully send his tithes to Bethel Baptist Church. Donald served four years in the Army as a rifleman. Also serving during the Korean War conflict receiving the Bronze Star Medal.

Donald returned to reside in Albion, Michigan after retiring with 40 years of employment with the Chicago Transportation Authority as a Bus driver. Donald was an avid CUBS fan and enjoyed raising saltwater fish, playing poker, bid wiz, spades and frequently would be found at exit 104 (Firekeepers).

Donald leaves to cherish his memories one son Chester Collins (Lansing, MI), one daughter Katrina Jefferson (Chicago, Ill), three brothers Raymond (Sarah) Collins of Albion, Jerome Collins of Albion and Terry Collins of Belleville, MI, one sister Elaine Dunklin of Cleveland, OH, one granddaughter Stevie Collins and one great granddaughter Kayla. A host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Special longtime friend Christine Johnson.

Donald joins those who preceded him in death, parents Nathan and Ethel Collins, Dear sister Katie

Baldwin and Brother Dewayne “Bo” Collins.

Military services will be held on Thursday, December 21, 2023, 1:30 PM at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Road, Augusta, MI. 49012.

The family of Donald Collins gratefully acknowledge with deep and gratitude, the many expressions of love and kindness shown during our time of sorrow. We thank everyone for their comforting words, visits, food, cards, phone calls, flowers and especially prayers. Special thanks to Elora Caring, Kennedy Care and the Veterans Administration.