Mr. Billy Edwin Collins, age 78, of Vernon, AL, passed away peacefully at his residence on Sunday, February 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Billy was born on June 27, 1947, in Columbus, MS, to the late Joseph Edward and Stella Mae (Black) Collins.  He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ginger (Rasbury) Collins.  Billy's early education began at Crossville Elementary School before he transferred to Lamar County High School in Vernon, where he was a proud member of the Class of 1964.  He continued his education at Northwest Junior College in Phil Campbell, where he played one year of college baseball.  He later attended Livingston University, earning his degree in health, physical, and recreational education with a minor in biology in 1970.

Following his graduation, Billy began his lifelong career in education and coaching, first taking a head coaching position at Aliceville High School. In 1972, he returned to his hometown as an assistant coach and physical education teacher at his alma mater, LCHS.  During this time, he met the love of his life, Ginger Rasbury.  He also served his country with honor, joining the Alabama National Guard in 1966 and remaining an active member of the 877th Engineer Battalion until 2006.  Billy's passion for coaching and education led him back to Livingston University in 1977, where he served as a graduate assistant for the baseball team under Coach Hoss Bowlin.  In 1978, he earned his Master of Arts degree from Livingston and accepted a teaching position in Maplesville.  While there, he coached under Bobby Hathcock and had the opportunity to mentor exceptional athletes, including future Minnesota Vikings players Tommy Agee and Harold Morrow. He also coached golf during his tenure at Maplesville.

In 1982, Billy married Ginger, and the following year, he returned to Lamar County as a teacher and coach at Kennedy High School, where he worked with Coach J.A. Williams.  He served as the head basketball coach and assistant coach for both football and baseball until the school's closure.  He played an instrumental role in naming what is now South Lamar High School. Billy's coaching journey then took him to Sulligent High School, where he served as head basketball coach and assisted Coach S.E. Sullins in football.  He also coached golf and tennis.  In 1990, he pursued additional training, attending paramedic school through the Civilian Medic program at the VA.  He went on to serve as an Army medic, completing tours in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and the Panama Canal.  Additionally, he worked locally with the Vernon ambulance service and served as a volunteer member of Crossville Fire & Rescue.

In 2000, Billy joined the coaching staff at Lamar County High School as an assistant football coach under Coach Vance Herron.  Over the years, he also coached wrestling, golf, softball, and baseball.  After four decades of dedication to coaching and education, he retired from coaching in 2006 and from teaching in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and commitment to his students and athletes.  Billy's life was one of service, dedication, and love for his family, his students, and his community.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be Sunday, February 16, at 3:00 PM, at the Vernon First Baptist Church, with Bro. Brandon Phillips officiating.  He will lie in state from 2:00-3:00 prior to the service.  Burial will follow at Lamar Memory Gardens.  Visitation will be Saturday, 4:00-6:00 PM, at the funeral home.

Active pallbearers will be Glenn Crawford, Don Dollar, Vance Herron, Danny Jackson, Chris Lockhart, Terry Robinson, Roger Wallace, and James Sherrill Yerby.  Honorary pallbearers will be Melinda Hawkins, Doug Cranford, Thomas Jackson, Terrell Hattaway, Truman McDowell, Eddie McNees, Glenn Owens, S.E. Sullins, Raymond Taylor, Scott Westbrook, 877th Engineer Battalion, Alabama Hospice of Jasper, Class of 65' Bandmates, CPCC Staff of UAB, Dr. Ford of Baptist Hospital (fourth floor), Generations of Vernon, Home Health of Fayette, Lamar Ambulance Service, and former colleagues, players, and students.

Billy is survived by his two daughters, Lindsay (Scott) Emerson of Vernon and Katherine (John) Cunningham of Millport; four cherished grandchildren, Branson Emerson, Evan Cunningham, Sam Cunningham, and Anniston Emerson; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.  His life's work and influence will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.