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Donald T. Collins, former Sussex employee

February 8, 2014

Donald T. Collins, 84, passed away Thursday, Feb. 6, 2014, surrounded by family and close friends.

Donald was born in Millsboro, Oct.12, 1929, to William Twiford and Mildred L. Calloway Collins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Donna Jo; as well as a sister and brother-in-law Louise Collins Ward and Donald Ward; and a son-in-law Gerald Walters.

A carpenter and building contractor, Donald worked many years with his father in their construction business. After his father’s retirement, Donald continued the business for a number of years. In 1989 he began employment with Sussex County, and during his years of service with the county, he earned certification as a building code inspector. He left county employment in 1995 and started his own drafting and consulting company, Certified Services Inc., which he operated for many years until failing health forced him to retire.

Mr. Collins proudly served in the U.S. Navy and was a Korean War veteran. He was a member of Zoar United Methodist Church where he served in numerous capacities over the years. He enjoyed singing in the church choir, fishing, camping with his family and traveling, playing bridge and dancing. Donald was a star basketball player at Millsboro High School where he graduated in 1946. He was an avid NASCAR follower and fan of driver Jeff Gordon. He served on the Indian River School District Board of Education from 1970-78. He was a member of the Millsboro Cemetery Board.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Betty Jo Dorey Collins; one son, Kevin Donald and his wife Amy; daughters Andrea Walters, Christie Collins Butterworth and Dr. Michael, Donna Collins, and Corali Collins Williamson and Jody; grandchildren Justin and Ian Walters, Joshua (and Lauren) Hudson, Amanda H. (and Ryan) Meade, Daniel Hudson, Jessica and Paul Williamson, Alexandra, Collin and Kendal Butterworth, and Hannah, Micaela, Hunter, Liam, Caleb, Madison Rose and W.T. Collins; great-granddaughter Jordan Andrea Walters; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 13, at Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro,where friends may call after 11 a.m. The Rev. Drs. Edward R. Wilkins and Arthur G. Backus will officiate. Interment will follow the service at Millsboro Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, or to Zoar United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, % Carisa Pepper, 24463 Gravel Hill Road, Millsboro, DE 19966.

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