Marshall, IL William Gene Collins, age 71, of Oliver, IL passed away at 5:50 AM in Paris, IL at Horizon Health Center. He was born on October 24, 1947 in Terre Haute, IN to Jackson and Myrtle (Callis) Collins. He married Jerry Jones on July 31, 1970 in Terre Haute, IN. He was the Owner/Operator of Collins Transportation. He is survived by his wife, Jerry of Oliver, IL., One son William J.R. (Thomasena) Collins of Lexington, SC., one daughter Rose (Nate) Jacobs of Indianapolis, IN., Eight grandchildren Felicia Thompson, John Thompson, Dallas Collins, Jackson Collins Randall Chiado, Maci Whitesell, Charles Z Saunders, and Zane A Saunders. Two Great Grandchildren Amara Gordon and Mallori Harris, Two special nieces Ruby Floyd and Patty Yamashita, Two Brothers Raymond (Elaine) Collins of Terre Haute, IN., and Robert Collins of Terre Haute, IN.,Two Sisters Mary (Charles) Wagner of Terre Haute, IN., and Joyce (Owens) of Terre haute, IN., and Several Nieces Nephews and Cousins. William and Jerry were also foster parents for 10 years and had many foster children. He was preceded in death by one son Charles Saunders. He was formerly a bus driver for Martinsville, worked at MidWest Truck Body, Vietnam Veteran, Life Member of VFW Post #5975 of Marshall, former member of American Legion Post #211 of Paris, Loved hunting , fishing, and playing bingo. Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 Wednesday June5, 2019 at the Pearce Funeral Home in Marshall, IL with Rev. David LaBoard Officiating. Military Graveside Rites will be performed by VFW Post #5975 at the Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 PM Tuesday June 4, 2019 at the Funeral Home. Online Condolences may be expressed at pearcefuneralservices.com