William Collins, Jr.

William Atmar Collins, Jr., 85, passed away on February 5, 2006 at a local care facility. He was born to Will Atmar Collins, Sr. and Julia Spence on May 25, 1920 in Groveton, Texas. His senior year at Texas AM, April 1941, he received his commission from the Army and served during World War II. After the war, he finished his degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1947. He was a proud member of the Fightin Texas Aggie Band, and marched in the band once again during the Centennial Year Celebration. On April 19, 1942, Mr. Collins married his high school sweetheart, Florine Patton, in Crockett, Texas. They celebrated 63 years of a loving marriage, and dated seven years before that. They were lifelong partners.He began his career with Lone Star Gas in 1947 and retired from the same company, now called Enserch, in 1982 as a corporate vice president. Upon retirement, he moved to Kerrville and lived out his life in the beloved Hill Country.Mr. Collins was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Ingram. He was active in various roles in the Presbyterian Church, among which was Ruling Elder. He was a member of ASHRAE, and The Retired Officers Association. He was generous with his time in many service capacities, including volunteering as a mentor at the Juvenile Facility in Kerrville. He is survived by his wife, son, daughter, and soninlaw.Memorial services will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 8, 2006 at the First Presbyterian Church in Ingram with Pastor Ray Tear officiating. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Kerrville Funeral Home.

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