Darrell Lyle Collins, 72 of Beckley, WV, passed away on May 7, 2025, surrounded by his children. He was born August 19, 1952, in Milton, WV, son of the late Lonnie “Jocko” and Ataloa Burton Collins. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Keith and Ronald Collins and stepdaughter Amanda Hylton. He is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years Marie Collins; one son Curtis (Katie) Collins and their children Kenyon, Kendall, and Carolina; one daughter Catrina (Chad) Miller and their children Isaiah, Jada, and Harmony; two sisters Connie Webb and Janet Chapman; one brother David Collins; grandchildren Zane Green (son of Amanda Hylton) and Tyler and Kyle Petrizzo and their mother Leigh Anne Hylton.
Darrell was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving honorably as a medic with the rank of Specialist (E4) from 1971-1973. During his years of active federal service, he was recognized for his achievement for his work ethic in pediatrics at the Walter Reed Hospital. As a young adult he was a member of the Milton Boxing Club and left a lasting mark in the Golden Glove circuits.
A faithful husband and an extremely patient and loving father and papaw who lived a selfless life of endless patience and giving. He was an ally and encourager who provided great strength and wisdom to his family and closest friends. As a dad he was a confident leader, cheerleader, and best friend. He was an elite and seasoned perfector of the “dad joke” before it was even a thing. As Papaw he was a dedicated fan of all his grandkids’ interests and activities. As a man he was a fighter to the very end for all he believed in and lived for. He trusted the Lord Jesus in faith, is united with Him in life and death, and will be resurrected at the last day.
Funeral service will be held at 1p Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Wallace Funeral Home, Milton, with Pastor Ronnie Stewart officiating. Burial will follow the service at Forest Memorial Park, Milton. Condolences may be expressed to the family at http://www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
In lieu of flowers the family would like to invite and encourage donations be made to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/
