Joseph A. “Joe” Collins, Jr., 61, of Ocala, FL, passed away on Sunday, June 6, 2021. Joe was born in Birmingham, AL to Joseph Sr. and Evelyn Collins. He served as a medic in the US Army, stationed in Germany. He moved to Ocala in the 1980’s from West Palm Beach, FL. He was a truck driver for the past 40 years. Joe enjoyed his children and grandchildren, and all his family, and barbecuing!
Joe was a serious encourager of young children learning to read and provided many books in his lifetime to his children and grandchildren. Those attending the memorial service are encouraged to bring a children’s book in lieu of flowers to continue his commitment to children’s reading.
Joe was predeceased by his mother Evelyn, brother Kelly, and sister Theresa. He is survived by his daughter Angel, 2 sons; Joe and Michael, 6 grandchildren; Xakk, Kaii, Sanjana, Daniel, Caden, and Ronnie, sister Gail, and 2 brothers; Ernest and Charles.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Service in Ocala. Family will receive friends at 1:30pm and service begins at 3:00pm.