Harold Ray Collins

Harold Ray Collins, affectionately known as “Ray” by family and friends, transitioned from labor to reward on Friday, March 14, 2025, at approximately 12:20 p.m. at Baptist Health Paducah.  He was born to the union of the late Barney Collins and LoVella Donaldson Collins on March 9, 1957 in Metropolis, IL. At the time of his transition, he had reached the age of 68 years, and 5 days. He was preceded in death by a sister, Juanita C. Collins, his paternal grandparents, Joe and Alice Collins and his maternal grandparents, James and Georgia Donaldson.
 
Ray was of the Baptist faith.  He was a graduate of the former Metropolis Community High School. He was employed by Cook Coal Terminal/AEP where he worked faithfully for 38 years before his retirement.  His strong work ethic and energy led him to a side job in lawncare not only in Metropolis but also collaborating with his brother-in-law in Paducah.
 
As a child, Ray enjoyed pretending to be a truck driver like his father with his miniature Bonifield Bros. toy trucks. His love for Boxer dogs brought many pets through the years, Duke, Dot, and Sandy to name a few. He was a regular customer of the local Western Auto with his yearly upgrade for the latest bicycle.  Ray played baseball for Metropolis Khoury League IGA and was nicknamed the “Left-Handed Sandy Koufax” by his teammates. He later coached the Blue Knights, a women's softball team, leading them to an undefeated season, teaching them not only the game but the value of teamwork. 
 
Ray was a huge Dallas Cowboys fan, he spent many Sundays cheering them on and sharing in the highs and lows of each season. He also looked forward to watching wrestling every week, enjoying the entertainment and excitement it brought. He was quite fond of Western movies and watched them daily.
 
His kindness and genuine heart will be deeply missed by all who knew him.  He was best known for volunteering to help others without being asked. Although he was the younger brother, he was always the “older” brother watching over and taking care of family.  
 
Ray leaves to cherish his loving memories: wife of 23 years, Mrs. Sharon A. Hill Collins; one daughter, Mea Fitzpatrick of Metropolis, IL; one granddaughter, Jaden Fitzpatrick of Metropolis, IL; one sister, Kay (Terry) Rouse, Sr. of Paducah, KY; three nephews, Ricky Collins of Metropolis, IL, Terry (Allecia) Rouse, Jr. of Rineyville, KY, Tamu Collins of Metropolis, IL; one niece, Felicia Rouse of Paducah, KY; other relatives and dear friends. 
 
Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, March 22, 2025, 1:00 p.m. at Mt. Horeb Church in Metropolis with Reverend Gregory Pruitt and Reverend Ronnie Woods officiating.  Burial will follow in Masonic Cemetery.

Famiy will receive friends on Saturday at the church from 12 noon until the funeral hour.

You may light a candle or leave online condolences at pettusrowlandfh.com.