David Roger Collins

David Roger Collins was born on January 12, 1941, in Dallas, Texas, at St. Paul Hospital.   He passed away on March 7, 2024, in Plano, Texas.

He is the son of Chester William Collins of Ft. Worth, Texas, and Ruby Edna Sanford Collins of Judsonia, Arkansas, both preceded him in death.

David attended West Texas State University, graduating with a B.A. in History in 1964.  While at WTSU he was the commander of Sigma Nu Fraternity and a distinguished military graduate from ROTC.  After serving as a Company Commander in Vietnam, he graduated with an M.A. in Political Science from Tulane University.  He graduated from the US Army War College with a master’s degree in Strategic Studies.

Major awards and qualifications include the Combat Infantry Badge, Silver Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, numerous awards for merit, Airborne Badge and Ranger Tab.  He served as a Battalion Commander in Gelnhausen, Germany.  David and Charlene were blessed to have traveled around the world during his 26 years of service and to have met and maintained friendships with many wonderful people.  David retired from the Army as a Colonel.

After retirement from the Army, David worked at Electronic Data Systems, Vinnell Corp, and Lockheed Martin, retiring in June 2014.

David’s life was made full by faith, family, flag, and friends.  He relished the adventure of life and sharing it with family and friends.  He loved and was loved.

A Memorial Service is planned for 10:00 am on Saturday, May 4, 2024,  at Christ United Methodist Church in Plano, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Children's Ministry at Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Rd., Plano, Texas  75075.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Charlene Collins, daughter Roxanne Collins Tedford, son-in-law Dr. Ryan James Tedford, granddaughter Emma Grace Tedford, and grandson David James Tedford of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina and sister Nancy Collins Ellington of Allen, Texas.

David will be laid to rest at the Christ United Methodist Church Columbarium.