Rev. Willie R. Collins

Rev. Willie R. Collins, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Born in Atlanta, Texas, to Eula V. Collins and Willie Castleberry, he was raised in a close-knit family that instilled in him the values of faith, love, and resilience.

A graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, Willie built a successful career with Lone Star Steel, Lone Star Ammunition, and Red River Army Depot, where he met and later married the love of his life, Patricia. Together they raised two daughters and shared a life grounded in love and faith.

Willie accepted Christ at an early age and lived a life of spiritual devotion. After serving as a deacon at Enon First Baptist Church, he was called to preach, later pastoring Aberdeen Baptist Church and then Floyd Valley Baptist Church, where he faithfully served for 27 years. He also served as Moderator of the Unity District Association, ministering with wisdom, compassion, and grace.

A gifted gardener, generous soul, and dedicated servant of God, Rev. Collins touched countless lives through his ministry, kindness, and quiet strength.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Eula V. Collins; father, Willie Castleberry; sisters, Della Cole, Willie Ann Williams, Madie B. Jones, and Pearlene Johnson; and brothers, Jimmie Hunt (Rosa) and Willie Castleberry (Gloria). Cherishing his memory are his beloved wife, Patricia; his daughters, Alice McCalister-Hampton (Antwane) and Crystal Dixon (Calvin); his cherished grandchildren: Tyler McCalister, Tanner McCalister, Camryn Dixon, and Carrington Dixon; and his siblings: Ollie Lynch, Dorothy Banks, Mattie Hatcher, Birda Collins, Crystal Hullet (Anthony), Earnest Collins (Adrianne), Vernesser Collins, R.L. Castleberry, and Roy Castleberry (Lettie). He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Two nieces held a special place in his heart: Charlotte Walker (Derrick) and Dana Banks.

Rev. Collins’s legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in all who knew him.