LCDR Garry Neal Collins

LCDR Garry Neal Collins, age 70, of New Albany, Indiana, passed away on Saturday, January 6, 2024. Garry was born October 26, 1953, to Neal and Dee (Wells) Collins. Garry loved God, studying God’s word and sharing God's love with everyone. Garry never met a stranger and made many friends throughout his life. He loved family intensely; everyone held their special place as they went on many camping trips and vacations. Garry was a 1971 graduate of New Albany High School. Garry followed in his Father’s footsteps by proudly joining the U.S. Navy on June 23, 1971. He was Honorably Discharged after 23 years of service on April 1, 1993, as a Lieutenant Commander. Garry received these significant awards: Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy & Marine Achievement Medal (Received 2), Supply Corps Surface Warfare Officer, Enlisted Submarine Qualified, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, and Navy Good Conduct Medal. After retiring from the Navy, Garry worked for Farm Credit Mid-America and retired in 2016. Left to forever cherish his memories is the love of his life of 46 years, Marylyn (Robison); daughters Cher (James) Hodges, and Joanna Brown; grandchildren, Alexis (Matthew) Walston, Asher Hodges, Lauryn Young, Gracie Brown, and Carson Ratliff; great-granddaughter Ayla Walston; nephew Todd (Chrissy) Thomerson; bonus daughters Kristina Moore and Tracie Tiwary, as well as a host of cousins, friends, and Navy Buddies. And his beloved dogs, Spanky and Diesel. In Lieu of flowers, donations in Garry’s memory may be made to The Animal Rescue League. A visitation for Garry will be held Thursday, January 11, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Kraft Funeral Service, 2776 Charlestown Rd, New Albany, Indiana. A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024, at 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Gary will be laid to rest in Kraft Graceland Memorial Park following services.