05/11/2026
At Watts-Caney Fire & Rescue we are saddened by the passing of Bobby Collins. We remain deeply grateful for his years of service and dedication to our community. He was a tremendous supporter and faithfully served as a board member for years. His impact and commitment will not be forgotten.
Bobby Collins, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and pastor, entered eternal rest Sunday, May 10, 2026 at his home surrounded by family and love.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Brenda Collins and their two daughters, Barbara Henson (Dan) of Jackson, Kentucky, and Bethany Smith (Greg) of Bowling Green, Kentucky. He also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Bridgette Collins (Brian Maggard), Sarah Watts, Rebecca (Zach) Eiserman, Carter Smith and Miley Smith, as well as three precious great-grandchildren: Axl Johnson, Jensen Johnson and Saylor Johnson and a host of nieces and nephews. Bobby is also survived by his brothers: Nathaniel Collins, Charles Dean Collins, James Collins, and Willie Ray Collins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eliza and Hamp Collins, his brothers: Hiram Campbell, Richard (Dick) Collins and David Collins (one killed in service) Barney Collins, and his sisters Susie Collins, Doris Faye (Dot) Spencer and Jimmie Jean Spencer.
Bobby lived a life of service and dedication. He proudly served his country as a Navy Veteran, worked hard as a coal miner, and most importantly, faithfully ministered as Pastor of Neace Memorial Church for more than 40 years. His greatest joy was sharing the love of Christ and welcoming everyone with open arms. He was known for his love of people, music, and cooking, and for creating a warm and inviting place wherever he went.
Above all, Bobby loved the Lord. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is now rejoicing in Heaven—talking with Jesus, singing with his mother, and reunited with his sisters and brothers once more.
Visitation for Bobby will be held Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Neace Memorial Church at Ned, Kentucky with visitation to begin Friday, May 15 at 9:00 AM at the Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel with his funeral service scheduled to begin at 11:00 AM with Greg Watts officiating.
Burial will follow in the Jackson Cemetery with Axl Johnson, Jensen Johnson, Archie Johnson, Dan Henson, Brian Maggard, Greg Smith, Carter Smith and Mathew Combs serving as pallbearers.
"His Lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord."Matthew 25:23
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Neace Memorial Church at Ned, KY.
