Ollie Joe Collins III, affectionately known as “Joe,” was born on April 7, 1952, in Dallas, Texas, to the late Ollie Joe Collins Jr. and Erma JeanCollins. He peacefully entered eternal rest on June 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and love.

Joe graduated from South Oak Cliff High School in 1970. In 1975, he proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he honorably served his country as an Airman before receiving an honorable discharge. Following his military service, he attended The University of Texas at Dallas, earning a bachelor’s degree in Business.

Joe was first united in marriage to Althea Mitchell, and together they were blessed with four children: Melissa, Savannas, Shaka, and Ollie. Later in life, he married Almeter Collins. Throughout every season of his life, Joe remained devoted to his family. A lifelong learner, Joe was an avid reader who loved traveling, music, and sharing his knowledge with others. He dedicated many years of service as an at-risk counselor with the Dallas Independent School District, mentoring and encouraging countless young people. He later founded Collins Development, a successful construction company that helped build and improve important community institutions, including St. Philip’s Episcopal School of Dallas and the Dallas Bethlehem Center, before retiring.

Joe faithfully served as a deacon at Fair Park Church of God in Christ for more than 20 years. His steadfast faith, servant’s heart, and commitment to his church and community made him a respected leader, mentor, and friend.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Ollie Joshiep Collins; his sisters, Rosalind Marie Collins and Yvette Jean Collins; and his brothers, Willie James Collins and Jimmy Dwayne Collins. He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his children, Melissa, Savannas, Shaka, and Ollie; his loving sister, Orander Rachelle Mitchell; his cherished grandchildren, Kourine Gibson, Kourtne Gibson, Kourtlon Gibson, Alyssa Gibson, Collin Cottingham, Jordon Cottingham, Ava Benson-Collins, Ariya Benson-Collins, Sasha Collins, and Shilo Collins; his treasured great-grandchildren, Kourie Gibson, Kourtez Gibson, Kayden Gibson, Kaniyra Gibson, Jayla Snow, CJ Dodd Jr., Jayden Gibson, and Brayden Jackson; his niece, Shermie Hargrove; his nephews, O’Shawn Manning and O’ndre Thomas; along with a host of cousins, extended family members, dear friends, church family, and all whose lives were blessed by his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

Joe’s life was a testament to service, compassion, and perseverance. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, quiet strength, and the lasting impact he made on his family, his church, and his community. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him