Joseph Bernice Collins Jr., of Chattanooga, Tennessee, died on February 21, 2013 at Life Care Center of East Ridge.
J.B. Collins was born on June 30, 1931 in Chattanooga, to Joseph Bernice Collins, Sr. and Gussie Agnes (Coleman) Collins.
He is survived by his sister, Jo Ann (Collins) Truex, his wife, Mary Anne (Crouch) Collins, two sons, Joseph B. Collins III of Nashville, and Charles Daniel Collins of Chattanooga, and his grandchildren Lesley Anne Collins, Charles Daniel Collins Jr., Joseph B. Collins IV, and William Luke Collins.
J.B., also known as "Sonny" grew up in Wahatchie, Tn. He joined the U.S. Navy and was stationed in the Mediterranean. He attended the University of Chattanooga and Tennessee Tech University, during which time he married Mary Anne Crouch. A longtime employee of Forrest Cate Ford, he eventually started his own successful company "Collins & Associates" selling steel tubing. Later he cofounded Multiflex Inc., an elastic yarn manufacturing company. He raised his family in Chattanooga, living on Signal Mountain, Elder Mountain, and Lookout Mountain.
J.B.'s greatest love besides his wife and sons was coaching youth in football, baseball, and basketball. As a parent coach for The Bright School and little league coach for various Lookout Mountain baseball teams, "Coach Collins" touched the lives of many. He was also an avid golfer, being a member of Lookout Mtn. Golf Club, and later the Chattanooga Golf and Country Club. J.B was also a great lover of good wine, food and company. He was a member of the Walden Club and the Chien De Rotisseurs. He and his wife traveled widely.
J.B. was also a long time member of the First Presbyterian Church. He firmly believed in "Don't let your left hand know what your right is doing". His generosity lifted many.
Visitation will be on Monday, Feb. 25, from 5-7 p.m. at Wann Funeral Home.
A graveside service and burial will be at the National Cemetery in Chattanooga, on Tuesday, Feb. 26, at 2:30 p.m.
J. B. was dearly loved. His leadership and example will be greatly missed until all the saints are gathered together.
Arrangements are by Wann Funeral Home, St. Elmo.