Gene Austin Collins

Gene Austin Collins, aged 83, passed away on Thursday, September 17th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 18, 1943, in Cobbtown, he made Metter his lifelong home after marrying the love of his life, Martha Faye Collins, in 1959.

Gene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community member. He is survived by his beloved wife, Martha Collins; his daughter, Regina Sutton and her husband Jamie; and his cherished grandchildren, Tripp Sutton, Tiffany Hilderbrandt and her husband Jeffery, and Brooke Sumner. His legacy extends further to his adored great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Jentry, and Jayden Hilderbrandt. Gene's loyal canine companion, Scooter, was his steadfast friend to the very end.

Educated at Collins High School, Gene dedicated 45 years of service as a machinist at Brooks Emerson Electric in Statesboro. Known for his strong work ethic and camaraderie, he retired with fond memories and enduring friendships.

Gene attended Cedar Street Baptist Church where his faith was a guiding force throughout his life. In his younger years, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. His retirement was filled with tending to his vegetable garden whenever possible, sharing memorable moments during big Christmas gatherings, and enjoying classic black-and-white western films with his family and loyal Scooter by his side.

He was preceded in death by his father, Austin Collins, his mother, Mildred Collins Wells, and his beloved son, Terry Gene Collins.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11 AM at Anderson-Newman Funeral Home, Kennedy-Hooks Chapel, with Rev. Bo Fulginiti officiating. The family invites friends to visit an hour before the service to share memories and condolences.

Honoring Gene as pallbearers will be Mike Purvis, Scott Steele, Dale Fordham, Jeff Hutson, Sean Collins, and Joey Collins.

A fully complete obituary will be posted shortly.

Arrangements have been thoughtfully provided by Anderson-Newman Funeral Home, Kennedy-Hooks Chapel.