John Edward ‘Eddie’ Collins, age 80

John Edward ‘Eddie’ Collins, age 80 of Leslie, Arkansas left his earthly life on February 9, 2025. He was born in Bauxite, Arkansas on October 13, 1944 to the late Ezra Wilson Collins and Frances Pauline (Thomas) Collins. John was also preceded in death by the love of his life, Mary Emaline (Goff) Collins; his brothers, Jerry Wilson, Frances Ray, twins Ronald and Donald, Burrell Benjamin, Ronnie Dale Collins and great grandson, Keegan Lee Hoffman.

John was one of five brothers from Bauxite that bravely served their country. He ranked Master at Arms, Petty Officer 3^rd Class in the United States Navy and was part of the Construction Battalion, better known as the Seabees. In 1962 he served his first tour at Barbers Point, Hawaii on the island of Oahu, and then re-enlisted 1967 and served at Đông Hà, Vietnam until 1969.

His awards included; The Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star, the Fleet Marine Force Combat Operations Insignia, the Expert Rifleman, and the National Defense Service medal.

John was a hard worker, often working two jobs. After working many years for Allied Fence, he started his own fence construction company, known as J & J Fence. He enjoyed hunting and competing in bass fishing competitions.  He loved the outdoors, spending time with his family and traveling. He was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Marshall, Arkansas where he once had served as a deacon.

He leaves behind his children; Cara Benson (Jeff) of North Little Rock, Tim Rice (Darla) of Grass Valley, California, Vincent Rice (Debby) of Hot Springs, Heidi Beck of Malvern, James Collins (Tammy) of Springfield, Missouri and Emily Engelbrecht (Matt) of Wasilla, Alaska.

Grandchildren; Joshua Massey (Stephanie) of Maumelle, Jacob Benson of North Little Rock, Elizabeth Holder (Stephen) of Sheridan, Sarah Miller of North Little Rock, Parker Rice of Nice, France, Vince Rice of Fort Smith, Jonathan Rice of Van Buren, Janet Beck of Traskwood, Rachel Conger (David) of Malvern, Paxton and Keeton Engelbrecht, both of Wasilla, Alaska.

Great-grandchildren; Brody and Kylie Massey, Bela Benson, Londyn Remington (Jaedin), Jude Holder, Kaydi and Kensey Allen, Ethan, Mason and Beau Conger; and a great- great grandchild, Benny Alan Remington.

Siblings; Elizabeth Sue Krebs of Benton, Thomas Lee (Bo) Collins of Clinton,  Judy Ann Trickey of Benton, Arkansas and cherished extended family and friends.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at the Arkansas State Veterans Home, the doctors and nurses at the John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital, as well as family and friends who have continued to show love and support.

Services with Military Funeral Honors will be held Sunday, February 16, 2025, 2:00 p.m. at the Marshall Seventh Day Adventist Church, 601 E. Main Street, Marshall, Arkansas, with Pastor Ron Woolsey officiating.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400.