Gerald “Jerry” Thornton Collins

Gerald “Jerry” Thornton Collins was born on February 27, 1941 in Columbus, Ohio to the late Juanita (Robinson) Collins and Wade Collins. As a youth he was a member of the Milo Grogan Boys and Girls Club. Gerald received his formal education in the Columbus Public School System, graduating from Central High School, January Class of 1960, where he served on the Safety Council. After high school Jerry enlisted into the U. S. Army on September 13,1960 and received an Honorable discharge after serving in Korea. He also attended Bliss Business College, where he studied Accounting. Jerry was employed by the U. S. Postal Service, retiring after over 40 years of service. He enjoyed spending time with his wife and grandsons. He loved to dance, listen to Jazz music and watch sports, especially the Cleveland Browns. He was also a big fan of the boxer Muhammad Ali. His wife, the former Peggie J. Thompson, whom he married September 25, 1965, passed away June 15, 2019. He leaves to cherish his beloved memories; his daughters, Sonji (Joel) Waits and Nona (DeHaven) Lee; grandsons, Jaden and Braylon Lee; brother, Joel Collins; a host of nieces , nephews, cousins, friends; and longtime friends, Earl Littlefield and Harvey Harris. Besides his parents, grandparents and wife, he is preceded in death by his siblings, Deborah Miller, Floyd Collins, John Collins, Helena Collins, Danny Collins, Donald Robinson and friend, Michael Ward.