Dwight Edwin Collins, 83

Dwight Edwin Collins, 83, died February 4, 2016 at home following an extended illness.

Dwight was the son of Carper Herbert and Ivan Inez (Phillips) Collins who preceded him in death, along with his brother Ralph Collins. He is survived by his three sisters, Jaunita Hall, Helen Keatley, and Doris Hudson. His wife of 48 years, Linda (Robbins) Collins; his son, Steve Collins and wife Teresa; his daughter, Karen Collins Dunagan; his son, Boyce Collins and wife Laura; his daughter, Sabena Collins Maiden and husband Emory; his grandchildren, Felicia, Danyell, Kasey, Kristy, Ben, Ada, Ellary and Kade; and three great grandchildren, Jayden, Kayden and Cameron; his many nieces and nephews, as well as many close friends, especially Jane and Jimmy Jones.

Born and raised in Princeton, WV, he was a thirty-year resident of Raleigh, but retired to Hendersonville in 2002. As a young man, Dwight went right to work, his first official job title being a billiard pool racker at the age of 16. After high school, he joined the U.S. Marines in 1951, serving three years. In 1955, he re-enlisted with the U.S. Air Force, where he rose to Technical Sergeant. He met his wife, Linda Robbins, while stationed in Florida, and they were married in 1967. He retired after his 20 year military service in 1972, having served his country proudly, including both the Vietnam Conflict and Korean War, and was awarded several commendations, including the Purple Heart.

After his military service, primarily in the technology field, Dwight had the opportunity to join RCA, which became General Electric, where he served as a Field Technician for 22 years.

Dwight enjoyed maintaining his lovely yard, was known for his huge backyard garden in Raleigh, was an awesome bowler, and was a pretty decent golfer. An avid jokester, Dwight loved a playful prank or silly joke to make people laugh. His family was the most important thing in his life and he made sure they felt loved, were cared for and knew laughter.

He was a member of Mud Creek Baptist Church of Hendersonville.

The family will receive friends Thursday, February 11, 2016 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Chapel In The Pines of Jackson Funeral Service. Funeral services will follow with Rev. James McHarge officiating. Burial will follow at Shepherd Memorial Park with Military Honors provided by Shaw Air Force Base.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Four Seasons Palliative and Hospice Care at 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731 or CarePartners Adult Day Services at 68 Sweeten Creek Road Asheville, NC 28803.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.