Lawrence Edward Collins, Jr.

Lawrence Edward Collins, Jr.
“Ed”, “Eddie”, or “Mr. Ed”

Lawrence Edward Collins, Jr, age 64, died Monday, October 13th, 2025, at his home in Mount
Juliet, Tennessee.

Ed was born on August 15th, 1961, in Mount Vernon, Illinois. He was the firstborn of Lawrence “Larry” and Myrtle “Mert” Collins. He had one brother, Timothy “Timmy” (1967 – 1974).

In his 64 years of life, Ed was many things to many people. In addition to being a son, a brother, a friend, a husband, and a father, he was a hero. He deeply valued his military service and was always proud to serve our country. In 1983, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in several posts.  After graduating from Northern Illinois University in 1992, he was commissioned as an officer. Over a distinguished career that spanned more than three decades, he attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel; served with distinction in multiple combat zones; and was assigned to high-level posts across the nation. Throughout his career, Ed always followed the mission and expressed the highest ideals of
professionalism, honor, and courage.

Ed had a great sense of humor and was always quick with a story or a joke. When he gave his word, he kept it; and he always brought out the best in others. He had a million-watt personality, and was warm enough to make you feel like the most loved person in the room. Ed loved volunteering with and being a part of the Combat Veterans Association and could often be found raising a cigar and a glass of bourbon at the local cigar lounge, surrounded by friends.

Ed is survived by his devoted wife, Julie; his daughter Krystina, her husband Brian, and granddaughters Anaya, Elana, Olivias, and Iliya; his daughter Melissa, her husband Joshua, and grandson Ethan; his daughter Jenny and granddaughter Trinity; his daughter Brianna, her husband John, and grandsons Robert and Jasper; his son Mitchell with partner Lauren; and his father, Larry. He is preceded in death by his mother Mert and his brother Timmy.

A visitation will be held for Ed on Friday, October 24th, from noon to one pm at Western Hills Church, located at 7565 Charlotte Pike in Nashville. The funeral and internment will follow, at two pm, at the Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery in Nashville, with full military honors. The celebration of life will start at American Legion Post 88 at 1600; and last however long Ed would have wanted.

Arrangements in the care of Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, Nashville, TN (615) 857-9955. We proudly remain locally owned and operated.