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; his sister Kathryn Fordham Creech (Richard); brother, Wayne Collins (Ernestine); and his half brother, J.J. Collins; as well as 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, his stepfather, Pete Wells, and his beloved son, Terry Gene Collins.

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

The funeral service will be held Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 11 o'clock at Anderson Newman Funeral Homes, Kennedy- Hooks Chapel. The family will receive friends from 10- 11 o'clock at the funeral home on Saturday.  

Interment will be at Lake Cemetery.

Anderson Newman Funeral Homes, Kennedy-Hooks Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.