If you knew Collins, you knew that his relationship with Jesus was the most important relationship he had. He was passionate about sharing the Good News about Jesus’ gift of salvation for anyone who believed. He wanted everyone to believe and have the hope of eternity with God. He lived his life for Jesus and on the morning of October 17, 2024, Collins entered into the presence of His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Collins Andry Lane was born in Hon, Arkansas, on September 21,1943, to Campbell and Eran Lane. His childhood was challenging, but he worked hard and made the most of what little he had. He graduated from Waldron High School and shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served during the Vietnam War in 1965.
Collins married the love of his life, Carolyn Long, on July 21, 1965. Collins cherished his beautiful wife and preferred to be with her over anyone else. Their 59 years of commitment and love to each other is a beautiful picture of God’s commitment and love for each of us.
Collins could not wait to start a family, and their children meant the world to him: Cameron (Krista) Lane, Clark Lane, Courtney (Greg) Greenich, and Chad Lane. Collins worked hard to provide for his family, to ensure their safety, and to make sure they knew that what really matters is a relationship with Jesus.
Though Collins loved his children, he happily moved into the role of grandpa. Collins treasured his time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved being their “Popee” and he never failed to give a hug and a smile (and a piece of candy). He was loved dearly by Collin (Hannah) Lane and their children Harper, Hazel and Dean, Kendall (Tymon) Duinker and their children Huckston and Thatcher, Karah Lane, Kate (Neil) Smith, Keaton(Bre’) Duvall, Khloe Duvall, Kohlton Duvall and Kaden Duvall.
Collins knew that working hard would honor God, so he was determined to do his job well. After graduating from Arkansas Tech University, he became an insurance adjuster for Shelter Insurance. He worked for the company for 27 years.
When Collins dedicated his life to serving Jesus, he was willing and eager to fill whatever roll was needed. He absolutely loved being a part of the bus ministry at the church. His Saturday mornings were spent visiting the families and children and inviting them to church, then on Sunday he, along with the friends he served with, would pick them up and take them to church. He knew that this may be the only way for these children to hear about Jesus and His love for them. Along with the bus ministry, Collins taught Sunday School classes, spent many hours visiting people in the community, was a Deacon at Connect Church, and was the pastor at the Evening Shade Baptist church in Waldron, AR. Collins loved his community and did all he could to let everyone know how much Jesus loved them. He spent years knocking on doors and praying for people to know Jesus. In the mid-90’s, an opportunity opened to go abroad to share the Good News, and Collins was ready. Through the years, he was able to go and tell people about Jesus in Honduras, Guatemala, Columbia, Tajikistan and India.
Collins will always be remembered for his smile, his genuine love for people, and his heart for Jesus. We could not have asked for a better husband, friend, father, and Popee.
Collins would want you to know that, “since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ out Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.” (Ephesians 5:1-2)
A Celebration of Life will be held at Connect Church in Russellville on Saturday, November 2nd. There will be a time of visitation at 5:00 where the family will receive guests, and the Service will begin at 6:00. We welcome anyone who is able to attend.
Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the RussBus. This faith-based ministry is about helping people by showing them the love of Jesus in a tangible way. You can go to their website https://therussbus.org to donate.
