James Earl Collins

James Earl Collins , age 73, was born in Magnolia, Mississippi
on November 11, 1950 to the late David and Elois Coney Collins.  Earl was the youngest of eight children and moved to Avon Park in 1952.  He was preceded in death by his Parents;           Brothers - Willie Collins, David Collins Jr. and Charles Collins; Sisters - Louise Pearson and Mary Lucille Tate.   At an early age, he confessed his life to Christ.
Earl was a  man of few words. Earl’s warm heart,  kindness and generous spirit endeared him to all who had the  privilege of knowing him. His memory will forever live on it the heart of those were fortunate enough to share in his life’s journey. Earl was  never one to harm,  hurt or       disrespect another person. Everybody loved Earl - he had a heart of Gold!
After years of migrating to Michigan and other towns as an Agricultural Harvester for the hope of a  better living, he planted his roots In South Bend, Indiana for 15 years.  It was there he met the love of his life. Earl and Paulette were united in holy matrimony for over a decade. He      returned to Avon Park in 2017 after retirement  and  the passing of his beloved wife.

Earl leaves his most cherished memories to his devoted daughter,                                            Chancellor Bridges  (Wesley); Son, Earl James Jr (Barbara);  Grandchildren: Joshad Gordon,   Garrick Taylor, Gloria Wyatt, Keith Hamilton, Olivia Bridges, Dylan Bridges, Victoria Bridges,    Xavier Bridges, Jaron Fountain, Brielle Watts,  Taiwan Parry, Ashi Collins. Jamise Perry, Jasmine Perry, Earl James Collins III, and Earlinajah Collins;  Step Daughter - Latasha Nesbitt;               Step Son - Carnell Johnson; Step Grandchildren– Ty’Quarius Nesbitt, Malaysia Peate and         Ariyon Bonds and 12 Great-Grandchildren; Sisters - Della Mae Martin, Ella Mae Collins and    Barbara Campbell; A Special Friend - Lucy Mae Banks;  and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and loving friends.

Services entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
111 East Circle Street
Avon Park, FL  33825
Online condolences may be left at:
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com