Percy’s life began on Aug. 30, 1921, in Rolling Fork, Miss., the son of Elige and Pearl (Price) Collins.

Percy, 88, of Dowagiac, was united in marriage to the former Luella Dillard on Dec. 21, 1943, in Mississippi.

Percy was employed by the Ludwig Drum Co. in Chicago for many years, retiring in 1983 and was the owner along with his wife of the Collins Grocery in Dowagiac.

He was a spirit-filled member of Second Baptist Church in Dowagiac and served as a deacon in the church for many years.

Percy was best described as the “five star general” of the church for his hard work and his example as a loving husband and father.

His outgoing and friendly way served him well and he gained many friends throughout his 88 years.

Percy sang for several years as a member of the Traveling Fives.

His greatest joy was his family which includes: his wife of 66 years, Luella Collins of Dowagiac; children, Alice Clark, Brenda Collins, both of Dowagiac, Henry Collins of St. Louis, Larry Collins of Dowagiac, Jerry Collins of Chicago, Charles Collins of Decatur, Ga., Albert Collins and Terry Collins, both of St. Louis, Earl Collins of Mississippi and Linda White of Kentucky; 38 grandchildren; more than 90 great-grandchildren; and many great-great-grandchildren; sisters Dorothy Nelson of St. Louis and Maurice Miles of Mississippi, and brother Henry Collins of Cassopolis.

Percy went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, Feb. 25, 2010, surrounded by his attentive and loving family.

He is preceded in death by his son Percy Collins Jr., seven sisters and three brothers.

His family will gather with friends on Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Yazel and Clark Chapel, ending with a prayer service at 7 p.m.

His Home Going service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday at the Second Baptist Church under the direction of the Rev. Tyrone Pace.

He will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery following the service.

Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to the family in care of Luella Collins.

Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Percy at www.yazel-clark.com.