Roger Dale Collins, 79
Roger Dale Collins, age 79, went to be with the Lord on June 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of the family he cherished above all else.
Roger was born on February 15, 1947, in Sneedville, Tennessee, and spent most of his life in Harriman, Tennessee, where he built a life centered on his faith in God, hard work, and devotion to those he loved.
Roger was a proud United States Army veteran who answered the call to serve after being drafted. He retired from Oak Ridge National Laboratory after thirty-five years. He was a man of deep Christian faith and a longtime member of Big Emory Baptist Church. Before his health declined, he rarely missed a Sunday service.
Roger was a man of few words, but when he spoke, everyone listened. His words carried weight because they were spoken with wisdom and sincerity. Though reserved by nature, he showed his love in quiet ways, always making sure those around him were cared for, had food on the table, and had their needs met before his own. Those who knew Roger will forever remember his deep belly laugh that could instantly fill a room with warmth and joy.
His happiest memories were centered around family. Roger loved playing cards and patiently taught his grandchildren how to play, passing down far more than a game—he passed down tradition, connection, and treasured memories that will continue for generations.
Roger also enjoyed woodworking, listening to Christian music, and studying the Bible. He was exceptionally knowledgeable in Scripture and found great joy in sharing biblical stories and lessons with those around him.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Julia M. Goins Trent and Walter Collins Jr.
Roger is survived by his daughter, Bridget Webb; his adopted children, Chris Collins and Myranda Collins; his grandchildren, Kaigan Taylor, Collin Galloway and wife, Tessa, Coby Galloway and wife, Destiny, and Julia Webb; and six beloved great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Sherry Kinsler, Denise Trent, Dreema Ortiz, Theresa Collins Budinger, and Dan Collins, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.
His legacy of faith, generosity, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to family will live on in every card shuffled, every family cookout shared, and every life he touched. Though his chair may now sit empty, his presence will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Fraker Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 8:00 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Neil Crass officiating.
Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Goins Chapel Cemetery in Sneedville, Tennessee, with full military honors.
Fraker Funeral Home of Kingston is honored to serve the Collins family.
