US Navy (Ret) Grady James Collins

U.S. Navy (Ret.) Grady James Collins, 86, of Calhoun, Georgia, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at his residence following a period of declining health.

Grady was born in Fulton County, Georgia on April 15, 1938, the son of the late J.W. Collins and Ara Mitchell Collins.

He joined the U.S. Navy in 1957, and retired as Engineman Chief after 20 years of service on eight ships. Having traveled the world, their three children were born in San Diago, California, San Juan, Puerto Rica, and the Bahrain Island. He stated, ‘I’ve been married 66 years to my wife, who inspired and encouraged me in everything I did.’ He was of the Christian faith and a member and deacon of Bethesda Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Jean Ivie Collins; children, Michael Tracy Collins, Michele Stacy Fisher, Keith Randall Collins and his wife Jeannie; grandchildren, Matthew Pratt, Nikita Ray (Paul), Kevin Collins (Kayla), Kaleb Collins; great-grandchildren, Caelyn Pratt, Macei Pratt, Kohen Collins, and Klare Collins; brothers, Robert Collins, David Collins, and Steve Collins and his wife Pam; and other relatives.

A service to celebrate the life of Grady James Collins will be held Thursday, January 16th at 3:00 PM from Bethesda Baptist Church with Rev. Wesley Hunt officiating. Interment will follow the church cemetery with Full Naval Honors.

The family will receive friends Thursday, January 16th at Bethesda Baptist Church from 1:30 PM until the funeral hour of 3:00 PM.

The Brannon family and staff are honored to serve the Collins family.