James Larry Collins

James “Larry” Collins, 78, of Metter, Georgia, passed away October 30th, 2024, at St Joseph Candler Hospital in Savannah.  He was born on October 15, 1946, in Candler County to S.T. Collins and Nora Lee Cannady Collins.

Larry’s greatest achievement was the love he shared with his family.  He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Vera, with whom he celebrated 58 wonderful years of marriage.  He is also survived by their children:  son Chris Collins (Brenda) of Claxton and daughter Julie Collins Palmer (Mark) of Richmond Hill, and his son Gary Collins of Swainsboro.

Larry graduated from Metter High School in 1966 and went on to become a proud, hardworking farmer.  He was an influential member of the agricultural community, serving as President of the Candler County Young Farmers Organization for several years and on the state level for the Young Farmers Board.  In recognition of his commitment and efforts, Larry and his family were honored with the titles of District Young Farm Family of the Year in 1982 and Georgia Young Farm Family of the Year in 1983.  His leadership extended to the Candler County Farm Bureau, where he served multiple terms as President and represented his county at the state level.

From 1983 to 1985, Larry was one of three young farmers selected from Georgia to participate in the esteemed North Carolina State University Philip Morris sponsored Agricultural Leadership School.

Larry was a man of deep faith and was previously honored to serve as a Deacon at New Life Baptist Church.  He is remembered for his dedication to his family, his commitment to farming, and his contributions to the community.

In addition to his wife and children, Larry is survived by two sisters, Linda Jones of Amelia Island and Patsy Hair (L.E.) of Greenville, SC; five grandchildren, Landon Collins (Raelyn) of Statesboro, Denna Johnson (Dalton) of Metter, Sydney Neal (Alex) of Richmond Hill, Collin Wammock of Richmond Hill, and Sarah Padgett (C.J.) of Metter; and six great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 4-6pm at Kennedy Funeral Homes, Hooks Chapel.  The funeral will take place on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 2pm at New Life Baptist Church.

Larry Collins will be deeply missed by all who knew him and remembered for his unwavering love for his family and his remarkable contributions to his community.