Bennie L. "Pat" Collins

December 28, 1936 - August 12, 2020

Bennie L. “Pat” Collins, 83, of Laurel, MS passed from his earthly home on August 12, 2020 surrounded by his family. Pat retired from Industrial Services as a diesel mechanic. He enjoyed working on everything from golf carts to fighter jets. He served eight years in the U. S. Airforce where he started his career as a mechanic. Pat was a member of First Baptist Church of Calhoun. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and working with his flowers. He loved being outdoors and could often be found sitting on his porch watching the birds and squirrels. He loved spending time with his immediate family and he deeply cherished the time he got to spend with his grandsons, Nathaniel and Tristan. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Mary Nell; his parents, Bennie C. and Bertie Collins; and brother, Donis T. Collins. Left to cherish his memories are his sons, Anthony “Tony” Collins (Bridget) of Laurel, Jeff Freeman of Indiana and Michael Freeman; daughter, Melissa Lawrence (Scotty) of Laurel; step-son, Kenny Holland of Laurel; three grandsons, Nathaniel Lawrence, Tristan Lawrence and Josh Holland all of Laurel; sister, Juanita Musgrove; brother, Billy Ray Collins (Nancy) of Laurel; and a host of nieces and nephews. Visitation will be at Springhill Cemetery on Saturday, August 15, 2020 at 9:30 with graveside service to follow at 10 a.m. Bro. Leon Carmical will officiate. Pallbearers will be Tony Collins, Kenny Holland, Nathaniel Lawrence, Tristan Lawrence, Robert Pugh and Jeff Davis. Honorary pallbearer will be Scotty Lawrence. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, please wear a mask and practicing social distancing as much as possible. Casual attire is encouraged. To view and sign the online guest book, visit www.memorychapellaurel.com.