James Aaron Collins

Mr. Collins retired after serving 23 years in the United States Air Force as Master Sergeant. He also retired from the State of Tennessee after 20 years of service.

He was a longtime member and head usher at Grace Baptist Church where he attended the Ambassadors Sunday School Class.

His sister, Ann Burris preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Katherine A. Collins; son, James R. (Karen) Collins of Chattanooga; daughters, Janet L. (Gary) Goodge of France and Joan C. (Michael) Swanson of Chattanooga; brothers, Steve (Donna) Collins and Tom Collins of North Carolina; sisters, Carole (Harold) Prevette and Linda (Howard) Biggers of North Carolina and Mary (Gray) Macy of South Carolina; grandchildren, James R. (Maggie) Collins, of Florida, Kami M. (Chris) Leonard of Chattanooga, Jessica (Andy) Blevins of Cleveland, Emily G. (Trent) Walker of Knoxville, Lauren G. (Drew) Frye of Chattanooga, Jeremiah (Victoria) Goodge of McDonald, Alan M. Swanson of Chattanooga, Jonathan S. Swanson of Wisconsin, and Timothy “T. J.” Swanson of Chattanooga; 11 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, November 11, 2015 from 4-7 p.m. at the East Brainerd Chapel and Thursday, November 12, 2015 from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the church

Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 12, 2015 at 12:00 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church with Dr. Steve Euler officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Grace Baptist Church, Missions Program, 7815 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.