Lonnie Elvin Collins, 70, of Murphy, passed away Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021, at his residence.
He was a native of Jacksonville, Fla., where he had lived until moving to North Carolina in 1995.
He had served in the United States Marine Corps and was a Vietnam veteran.
Lonnie was “naturally gifted” concerning technology and had worked as a computer programmer throughout life.
Lonnie was a loving father and grandfather to his kids and grandkids.
He was the son of the late David Collins and Joan Studstill Bradshaw. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Michael Travis Collins; a granddaughter, Khalia Erikson; and a brother, David Collins.
Surviving are two daughters, Khristina Collins Erikson (James) of McAdenville, N.C., and Jennifer Collins Sullivan of Murphy; his significant other, Wanda Ladd of Murphy; two sisters, Judy Fuller (David) of Nebraska, and Janelle Bass; two brothers, Frank Collins (Leslie) of South Carolina and Ronnie Collins (Chris) of Florida; seven grandchildren, Kaidge and wife Alisha, Kynzleigh, Kollins, Kreedynce, Brylon, Baylor and Brixxton. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 13, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Rev. Larry Grindstaff officiating. Military honors will be provided by Murphy American Legion Post 96, Hayesville American Legion Post 532 and Hayesville VFW Post 6812.
The family will receive friends from 5-5:50 p.m. Monday, Dec. 13, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, prior to the service.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of arrangements.
An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhome.com.