Our beloved father and papaw, R. Eugene O. Collins, at the age of 93 was chosen by God to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. We weren’t ready to lose him but rejoice that he is walking in a much better place. Under the care of SOMC Hospice he was able to get his last wish of being at his apartment for his heavenly homecoming.
Eugene was born to John Earl Collins and Nancy Belle Cantell on April 3,1932 in Louisville, KY. He was a traveling hearing aid salesman in the 1970s. He attended Shawnee State University and graduated with a degree in Social Work in the 1980s. He proudly called Portsmouth his home. He loved his Fox News almost as much as he loved President Trump. Eugene had a Christian podcast ministry sharing video messages on Facebook and YouTube. At the age 93, he because a author that be spent the last 10 years of his life writing.
He was a proud Koren War Army Veteran. Who even attempted to re-enlist in the Army after September 11th attacks. But at the age of 69 the Army denied his request due to him not meeting age requirements.
Eugene would be there first to tell you that he was a different person before he became a Christian. Those who took the time to know him after, knew that He loved the church and loved sharing the love and warmth of our savior, Jesus Christ, with as many people as possible. For many years he was the pastor and executive director of Christian Outreach Association in Portsmouth, Ohio and loved to play Bluegrass Gospel Music with his best friend Paul Eskew. Recent years, Eugene and his family were blessed to find a church family at Rehoboth Mission Church in West Portsmouth.
Eugene was welcomed into Heaven by many family members and friends that went home before: parents: John Earl and Nancy Belle Collins, sister Christine Brewer, brother James “Bud” Collins, grandchildren: Kiara Jean Rickards, Kenny Robertson, David Turner, Ricky Collins II, Misty Collins. Also, the three great loves of his life: Wife and mother of 3 of his children: Betty Jean Fraley Collins; Wife and mother of 3 of his children: Juanita Napier; and wife and mother of his first child: Delores Reynolds. Also proceeded by his best friend and ministry partner: Paul Eskew.
Eugene’s great pride after Jesus was his family. He was great dad, but even better grandfather (papaw). He will be truly missed until we see him in heaven. His family tree will be carried on by survived by 9 children: Sarah (Terry) Rickards, Nancy (Lee)Duncan, Joesph (LeeAnn)Collins, Rachel (Joseph) Szerletich, Mary(Bob)Robertson, Jeffrey Collins, Ricky (Kathy) Collins, Debbie (Gary) Cox, and Sharon (Randy) Gillock.
Papaw of 18 Grandchildren: Noah, Haylee, Tyler, Charlie, Katelyn, Ashley, Betty, Jason, Mary, Jess, Felix, Jeri, Lana, Dusty, Brandie, Keith, James “Buddy”, & Andy. 22 Great- Grandchildren: Saraya, Kailani, Delilah Marie, Aiden, Alexix, Allision, Katherin, James M, Jacob, Autumn, Tyler, Whitney, Dakota, Dalton, Damion, James W., Aaron, Cameron, Trever, Brandon, Wyatt, & Aaden. 8 Great-Great Grandchildren: Davina, Anna, Issaiah, Kieran, Andrew, Marie, Josh, & Richie. Also had too many other nieces, nephews, surrogate grandchildren, and church family to name.
Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Rehoboth Mission Church on Stockham Hill Road in West Portsmouth with Pastor David Lute Officiating. Interment will be in Scioto Burial Park with military rites by the James Dickey Post 23 American Legion. Friends may call at the church on Saturday starting at 12:00 PM Noon. Arrangements are under the direction of the Roger W. Davis Funeral Home in West Portsmouth. Condolences may be sent to www.rogerwdavisfuneralhome.com.
