Donald E. Collins

Don was born in Salem, Virginia on August 21, 1938 to the late Curtis and Lucy Collins. He was raised in Salem and right after high school enlisted in the military. Don proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. After his time in service, Don took the skill he learned in the Air Force and began working for Piedmont Airlines. Here he worked hard and grew in rank from aircraft electrician to lead mechanic to foreman to manager. Don also met the love of his life, Audrey. He and Audrey married in 1968. When the Piedmont Airlines Maintenance Operation reduced personal in Roanoke, Don and his wife moved to Winston Salem where they continued to work for Piedmont Airlines until their retirement.

Don loved golfing with his friends, working in his yard, and being an active member of the Old Town Masonic Lodge. He was an amazing woodworker and would spend any spare time he could crafting furniture for his loved ones with care. Don’s favorite activity later in life would be going to cheer on his great nephew, Troy, at his little league games.

Don leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Audrey C. Collins; niece, Lucinda (Neal) Hodges; nephew, Adam Hamby; great nephew, Troy Hamby; close cousins, Kelda Flinchum and Karleen McLeod; sister-in-law, Tracy (Danny) Williams; and countless other loved ones and friends.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Wednesday, December 28th at 11am at Vogler Funeral & Cremations, 3815 Yadkinville Rd, with visitation immediately following the service.