Coeburn, VA ~ Billy Ray Collins, 64 passed Monday, September 14, 2009, at Wellmont Lonesome Pine Hospital after a long illness.
He was proceeded in death by his parents Lloyd and Maggie Collins, a son Barry Collins, niece Lynn Collins and nephew Mark Davenport; brothers-in law , John Ford and Joe Collins; sister-in-law, Betty Collins.
Surviving are his wife of 41 years, Sherry, his two sons Billy Collins, Jr. and wife Peggy, Hillsboro, OH. and Teddy Collins and wife Robbynn, of St. Leon, IN. and one daughter Lora Leigh Collins of Coeburn, VA. Also Surviving are sisters Novella Ford, Louella and Harold Reed, and Carla Faye Collins, all of Ohio. His brothers: Raymond and Chester Collins, both of Coeburn, VA.Billy had nine grandchildren: Andrew, Tiffany, Cody, Rebecca, Cassandra, Lucas, Jason, Dakota and Blake.Three great grandchildren: Michael, Matthew and Macy, and a host of much loved nieces and nephews. Also are many other friends and family.
Bill worked at many different professions including:truck driving and factory work.His primary profession in later life was a coal miner.He loved a good time and was always laughing and jolly.People were drawn to Bill and had given him many nicknames. One was "Real Bill".He was loved and will be missed by everyone!

The family will receive friends from 6-8pm on Thursday, September 16, 2009 and funeral services will be held at 7:30 pm in Estes Funeral Home Chapel with Jonathan Jessee officiating. Estes Funeral Home will be in charge of the arrangements.