William "Buddy" Mitchell Collins

William “Buddy” Mitchell Collins, age 81, died peacefully at his residence February 24, 2021, following an extended illness.

Mr. Collins was born February 25, 1939, in Oak Park, where he resided most of his life.  He also lived in Thomasville, McRae, and Fort Valley.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Guyton and Laura Wheeler Collins: his stepmother, Ronella Anderson Collins; his son, Guy Edward “Eddie” Collins; two sisters, Joyce Reynolds and Iris Lanigan; one brother, George L. Collins; step-daughter, Tonessa Clifton; and ex-wives, Carlene Mullis Collins and Patricia Williamson Collins.

Mr. Collins worked with the Coca Cola Company in Vidalia and later moved to McRae, where he managed the Coca Cola plant.  He was employed by Dennis Truck Lines and known as the “Drifter”, his CB handle.  He operated the former Strange’s Grocery in Oak Park several years before opening the game room across the street known as “Trina’s and Buddy’s.”  Mr. Collins was a school bus driver.  For the last few years, his employment was at Five Points Grocery.

He is survived by his wife, Trina Culbertson Collins; six daughters, Dusty Hankinson, Trisha Breese (Shannon), Stephanie Roundtree, Sheila Dix (Keith), Tra Carrol (Don), and Faith Moll (Mark); one son, Jeremy Breese; three sisters, Pauline Phillips, Jewel Pullum and Judy Collins (Buck); and ex-wife, Joann Sellars; 12 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at Chapman’s Funeral Home on Friday morning at 10:00 until just prior to the service at 11 o’clock, with Pastor Robert Beckum officiating.

Those attending the visitation and service are encouraged to follow CDC guidelines, including wearing a mask and social distancing.

Condolences may be expressed at www.chapmanfhofswainsboro.com

Chapman Funeral Home of Swainsboro is in charge of the arrangements for Mr. William “Buddy” Mitchell Collins, 81, of Oak Park.