Earl Lee Collins

Earl Lee Collins, 54, lost his courageous battle with cancer in the early morning of July 7th, 2024, his loving wife at hand. Although he has been put at ease, he will remain a beacon of inspiration and joy to his surviving friends and family, who will honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest.

Born on January 13th, 1970, Earl lived his life entirely in the city of Indianapolis. His oldest of friends will retell stories of a rebel child who grew up fast and on the edge. Many of his younger days were spent in the garage where he taught himself how to repair and repaint cars. He was proud to represent mopar but if it was fast and it could "rock" Van Halen, you probably saw him driving in it. The only thing slowing him down was his path to parenthood. The twinkle of a baby girl captured his imagination and served as the foundation for his first marriage. Earl was a fantastic father. His hard work provided well for his growing family and the love he had for his children knew no boundaries. Over the years he learned to appreciate nature and its bounty. Earl was an avid fisherman. He created many unforgettable memories during the warmer months teaching his son to fish and it was undoubtedly a favorite pass time amongst them. The winters welcomed him to the woods where he grew his bond with his beloved brother.

The later half of his life found him heartbroken. Like some do, his marriage ended in divorce. The bitter wedge of separation drove him to unknowingly meet his perfect match. Earl and Kerry first met at McQueen’s, a bar that once occupied the corner of Keystone and English. The droning noise of karaoke filled the room and his curiosity peaked when their eyes came together. Some time after they met, Earl and Kerry became inseparable as their mature lives mended together like the subtle sweetness of a well prepared rack of ribs (He was passionate for Montana Mikes). The two continued to frequent several local bars, most notably the American Legion in Fountain Square.

Earl loved to play darts, not only for the sport but also because so many of his dearest friends shared the board with him. When the weather permitted, the once quiet county roads embraced them. He enjoyed the freedom given to him by his beloved Harley Davidson motorcycles. The brotherhood that was represented when he rode with his friends was something he craved. Loud and proud, he wanted everyone to know how he enjoyed his freedom on two wheels. Quite possibly the only freedom Earl was more proud of was his right to bear arms. It’s hard to say which one he enjoyed more. He faithfully carried and collected a plethora of handguns as a hobby and as a protector to his community of loved ones. He was not arrogant to think that his handgun was a great equalizer, because he made sure he was practiced and proficient with every gun he owned.

Earl will be remembered and cherished by many. His presence was immediately felt and he could make even the dullest room shine like it was grand. He loved to smile and laugh. His ability to spread joy was rivaled only by the deadliest of illness. In his memory, Earl would rest peacefully knowing that everyone reading this be warned of the dangers of letting your health go unchecked. Cancer is a silent killer and it has no preference. Young, old, black or white.. the only thing that can save you from these killers is finding out early and investing in your health.

Earl is preceded in death by his parents, Jerald Collins Sr. and Carol Massy.

He is survived by his wife Kerry Collins, his siblings Jerald Collins Jr., Ellen Ennis (Ted), Christina Ennis (Ronald), his children Corinne Davison (Manny), Christian Collins (Alysa), Skyla Rivas (Moe), Amanda Roberts (Bobby), Colten Collins (Julie) and his 12 beautiful grandchildren that made his smile beam with pride.

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