Allen R. Collins, age 78, of Cadiz, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at his home.
Born on October 14, 1947, in Peoria, Illinois, he was the son of the late Richard W. Collins, Sr. and Marguerite E. (Jones) Collins.
Allen proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy during the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1968. His service was marked by dedication, discipline, and a deep sense of duty, reflecting the strength of his character and commitment to something greater than himself.
Following his service, he became a respected craftsman and business owner of Collins Builders. He was a dedicated member of the American Legion of Spring Bay, IL Post #1115 and Cadiz, KY Post #74.
Al’s greatest joy was his family and friends. He was never happier than when captaining his pontoon boat on Lake Barkley, surrounded by those he loved, the sound of laughter and conversation carrying across the water. He found a deep sense of peace in the outdoors, especially while fishing—whether on a quiet morning on his back porch or out on the lake, sharing stories and waiting patiently for that first bite. Fishing was more than a pastime to him; it was a way of life and a way of connecting. Some of his most treasured moments were spent teaching his grandchildren how to fish—guiding their hands, celebrating their catches, and passing down not just a skill, but patience, laughter, and a lasting appreciation for time spent together. Those memories, made on the water and beyond, will live on in their hearts forever.
He is survived by his loving wife, Lynn Collins of Cadiz, KY; his children, Kevin (Shawna) Collins of Germantown Hills, IL, Kelly Collins (Stacy Walsh) of East Peoria, IL, and Elizabeth Collins (Paul Dean) of Metamora, IL; and his stepdaughter, Amy Lee (Jason Moore) of Metamora, IL.
He was the proud grandfather of Kainan Collins, Eryka Collins, Emmalyn Tanner, Easton Dean, Skylar Dean, Seth Bedwell, and Avery Bedwell; and great-grandfather to Kohen Collins & Breyer Tillman. He also leaves behind two sisters, Jacqueline Carmichael of Silvis, IL, and Virginia Call of East Peoria, IL, and his sister-in-law, Lisa (Frank) Zachman.
In addition to his parents, Allen was preceded in death by two brothers, Richard “Sonny” Collins, Jr. and Ronald “Ron” Collins, and one sister, Linda Mae Shattuck.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life with military honors will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.goodwinfuneral.com.
Goodwin Funeral Home, 138 Main Street in Cadiz, is in care of the arrangements.
