Lonnie Collins, age 64, went to be with the Lord on January 28, 2026, answering God’s call home. He passed away at Emory University from complications following a bone marrow transplant.

Born in Jackson, Kentucky, Lonnie lived in Chatsworth, Georgia, and was a devoted member of Valley Baptist Church. He lived his life guided by faith, love, and devotion to his family. He was an amazing husband, father, stepfather, and beloved Poppy—roles he cherished deeply and carried out with a servant’s heart.

Lonnie believed in God and lived his faith through hard work, kindness, and always showing up for the people he loved. He worked at Mannington Mills in Calhoun, Georgia, where he was overjoyed to receive the Employee of the Year award, a recognition that always brought the biggest smile to his face. He was known for fixing things, staying busy, sharing his classic dad jokes, and filling the room with his favorite ’80s music. His presence brought comfort, laughter, and warmth to those around him.

Alanna will forever cherish the memories of being his “little mechanic,” working side by side with him, and watching Kentucky basketball together. Natasha will remember listening to his favorite ’80s songs, and Brandon shared a special bond with him over sports. Those moments were blessings from God that will be carried with them always.

Though our hearts grieve, we find peace knowing Lonnie is now resting in the arms of the Lord, free from pain and surrounded by eternal love. His faith, love, and legacy will continue to live on through his family and all who were blessed to know him.

Survived by:
• His loving wife, Tammy Collins of 35 years
• Daughter, Natasha Collins and Mathew Smith of Chatsworth, GA
• Daughter, Alanna Collins of Chatsworth, GA
• Stepson, Brandon Adams of Dalton, GA
• Grandchildren, Walker and Ellison Adams
• Mother-in-law, Virginia Marcus of Chatsworth, GA
• Sister-in-law, Tracy Pate
• In-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Thurman Pate of Dalton, GA
• Carol Capps of Jackson, KY
• Judy and Estill Butler of Jackson, KY
• Niece, Andrea Renee and Ray Bowling of Jackson, KY
• Nephews, Dewayne and Chasity Rickerson of Lexington, KY; Chuck Collins of Jackson, KY
• Numerous great-nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews

Preceded in death by:
• Mother, Bobbie Jean Sizemore Collins
• Father, Robert Collins Jr.
• Brothers, Charles Collins and Freddie Collins
• Father-in-law, Gene Marcus of Chatsworth, GA

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters.”
— Psalm 23:1–2