Paul E. Collins, age 85 of Springfield, MO, formerly of Bolivar, and Marshfield, MO, passed away January 2, 2013, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born August 8, 1927, in Phenix, MO, to David E. and Mildred L. (Hagerman) Collins.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters: Wilma Daniel, and Juanita Bewley.
He married Luella Copeland in 1951. They had three children: Stephen Collins, Marshfield, Susan Mattox (Jim), Ash Grove, and Sherry Bell (Roger), Broken Arrow, OK.
He married Eva Taylor in 1990, and received his “bonus kids”: Nancy West (Jim), Joplin, Linda Collins (Chuck), Springfield, and Wayne Taylor (Sherry), Willard. He is also survived by his brother Richard Collins, Springfield; eight grandchildren: David Bell, Sarah Bell, Craig Mattox, Ross Mattox, Virginia West, Jacob West, Amber Sholes, and Greg Collins; nine great grandchildren; as well as numerous loving nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.
Paul retired from N.W. Electric in 1992. Upon retirement he loved to travel, fish, and spend time with family. Paul was a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church Bolivar, MO.
Funeral services will be held at 2:30 pm Saturday, January 5, 2013, at Pitts Chapel with Rev. Danny Vance officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery Aldrich, MO. Visitation will be held from 1:00 pm to service time at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mercy Hospice.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel Bolivar, MO.