Donald Ray Collins

Graveside service for Don Collins will be 11:00a.m., Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Ward’s Grove Cemetery. Friends may visit at the funeral home on Wednesday, October 23, from 1pm-7pm, family will receive visitors from 5pm-7pm. Don passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. He was 86.

Donald Ray Collins (Duck), was born on March 4, 1938, in Pryor, Oklahoma, to Loy and Gladys (Crowder) Collins, he attended school in Pryor, following his schooling he enlisted in the U.S. Army. His commitment to service was a testament to his dedication to his country. On April 2, 1968, Don married Norma Jean Avery, and together they made their home in the Foyil area. After his military service, Don built a successful career, initially working for McLendon Manufacturing before eventually retiring from Process Manufacturing in 2000. His work ethic and perseverance were evident throughout his professional life, reflecting the values he cherished.

Don was a devoted family man, finding immense joy in spending time with his loved ones, particularly his grandchildren. He cherished the moments spent with his children, Gerald Prideaux and his wife Sammie, Vicki Ellis and her husband Joe, Carol Rumsey, Randy Prideaux and his wife Molly, and Julie Prideaux. His legacy continues through his grandchildren—Mike West and his wife Kitty, Jenny Bland and her husband Adam, Stacy Hodges and her husband Mike, Greg Ellis and his wife Krista, Sara Moss and her husband Donnie, Shelly Suggs and her husband Hughie, Jessica Murray and her husband Ryan, and Randall Hurst. Don was also blessed with 13 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren, with two more on the way.

Outside of his family, Don enjoyed various hobbies that enriched his life. He had a passion for cooking BBQ for his family and co-workers as well as making the best homemade tamales for everyone in the family, he also enjoyed gardening, building cabinets, and fishing, pursuits that allowed him to connect with nature and share moments of joy with his loved ones. As a dedicated fan, he followed the University of Oklahoma Sooners with enthusiasm, particularly enjoying their football and women's softball teams.

Don's family will remember him not only for the love he shared but also for the strength and guidance he provided throughout their lives. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Norma Collins, as well as his children, Richard Prideaux and Debbie Prideaux, and his son-in-law Dwight Rumsey. His brother Tom Collins and his wife Corrine stand among those who survive him, alongside many extended family members and friends whose lives he touched.