William "Whitie" Luther Collins Jr., 97, of Battle Creek, Michigan, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, July 19, 2022. He was born on November 13, 1924, the son of William Luther Collins Sr. and Gertie Mae (Hutcheson) Collins.
Whitie was a 1943 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. He was employed in the Paint & Wallpaper Industry for most of his life at The Wallpaper Factory Outlet, Harmon's Paint Store and Douglas & Son's until his retirement in 1986. After retirement he worked in the Meijer paint department for over 5 years where he met many people.
Whitie is survived by his sons, Rodney (Linda) Collins, Gary Collins; grandchildren, Kimberly (John Bielski) Merchant, Kristen (Ron) Buller, Chad Collins, Brandon Collins, Shannon Collins, Brittany Collins, four great grandchildren, Caitlin (Travis) Betz, Gary Hartman, Alyssa Crandall, Kylee Crandall and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Alma Collins and sisters, Sandra "Sonnie" Boes, Mildred "Millie" Halk, Melba Yates, Reatha "Tiny" Angel, Mary Cuyler-Willavize and Juanita Collins.
Whitie was active in the Cheerful Campers Club, enjoyed square dancing at Sundown Squares & Dancing Shoes. He enjoyed woodworking and took his creations to many craft shows. He was an avid reader, a Scout Master for the Boy Scouts in Battle Creek and attended Cornerstone Community Church.
Visitation will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, on Saturday July 23, 2022 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with the funeral service following at 11:00 am. A luncheon will immediately follow the service.
Memorials may be made to the Haven of Rest Ministries, 11 Green Street, Battle Creek, MI 49014.
Arrangements by the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service. 269-788-9800. www.baxterfuneral.com