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Clay Collins, of Durant, Oklahoma, a Godly, kind-hearted, hardworking, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his loved ones on February 15, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on March 9, 1942, in Tucker, Oklahoma, to John and Amy Collins, Clay's life was defined by his love for family, his dedication to the Victory Life church community, and his passion for agriculture.
A proud graduate of Spiro Public Schools, Clay earned his associate degree from Eastern Oklahoma State College before graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from Oklahoma State University. He spent five years teaching FFA and then dedicated the next 30 years of his life to working with the USDA in Rural Development.
Clay married the love of his life, Barbara Bryant, on June 6, 1964. Together, they enjoyed 60 years of marriage, filled with love and laughter. Their union brought two children into the world: Tonya Collins Jenkins, married to Jay Jenkins, and Shawn Collins, married to Allison (Wells) Collins. Clay took immense pride in his role as a father, always guiding and supporting his children with wisdom, patience, and unconditional love. His gentle spirit and caring nature shaped the lives of those closest to him.
Clay had many passions that brought him joy throughout his life. He was an avid woodworker, creating beautiful pieces that will live on as lasting reminders of his craftsmanship. He also had a deep love for gardening, spending countless hours cultivating his plants and sharing the fruits of his labor with others. His love of nature extended to his hobbies of hunting and fishing, activities that allowed him to find peace and joy in the great outdoors.
As a grandfather, Clay's heart swelled with pride as he watched his six grandchildren "Taylor Jenkins, Logan Collins, Regan Jenkins, Micah Jenkins, Lauren Collins, and Donovan Collins" grow. He also cherished his honorary great-grandchildren, Brewer Crabtree, Beau Marcum, Brooks Marcum, and Beck Marcum, who brought even more love and laughter into his life.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara Collins; his daughter, Tonya Collins Jenkins and her husband, Jay Jenkins; his son, Shawn Collins and his wife, Allison (Wells) Collins; six grandchildren, Taylor Jenkins, Logan Collins, Regan Jenkins, Micah Jenkins, Lauren Collins, and Donovan Collins, his sister, Lila Collins Hull; and other family members, including nieces, nephews, and in-laws, who will miss him dearly.
Clay's legacy of kindness, hard work, and love will live on through his family and the many lives he touched.
Family hour will be Sunday, February 23rd from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Holmes- Coffey- Murray Funeral Home in Durant, Oklahoma. A memorial service will be held Monday, February 24th at 11:00 AM at Victory Life Church in Durant, Oklahoma. Final resting place will be Highland Cemetery, Durant.
Services are under the direction of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home, 121 North 5th Street, Durant, Oklahoma 74701. www.holmescoffeymurray.com
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