David Andrew Collins, 36, died November 24, 2024 at his residence. A master of unexpected comedy and crude humor, David transformed life’s ordinary moments into extraordinary laughs. From his massive family of 12 siblings, whom he loved with tremendous devotion, to his four daughters, David’s life was a testament to the power of unconditional love and uncontrollable humor.
No family gathering was complete without David’s signature blend of affection and comedy. He cherished his brothers and sisters deeply, maintaining lifelong connections that went far beyond mere blood relation. And true to form, he demonstrated this love through an arsenal of dad jokes, ridiculous stories and yes – strategically time flatulence that could clear a room faster than a fire alarm.
His military background and large family taught him that laughter was the ultimate weapon against life’s challenges. Whether singing dramatically off-key, rocking out to heavy metal, teaching his daughters to play guitar, performing impromptu comedy routines, or releasing an unexpected “musical” interruption, David never met a moment that couldn’t be improved by pure, unfiltered humor.
No visit with him was complete without David attempting a joke so bad that his daughters – Kaylie, Abby, Karsyn and Layla – would groan and laugh. He had a supernatural ability to embarrass and entertain, a talent he considered his most prized skill.
From school plays to graduations and birthday parties, and his oldest daughter’s wedding, David was there, wearing something deliberately ridiculous and ready with a comedic one-liner. His daughters knew that no matter what life threw at them, he would be there with a perfectly timed joke, a bear hug, and they unwavering belief that laughter could solve almost anything.
David’s military service was a testament to his resilience, discipline and dedication. He proudly served for 13 years in the Kentucky Army National Guard, rising to the rank of Sergeant. During his career, David excelled as both a Human Resource Specialist (42A) and a Multiple Launch Rock System/High Mobility Artillery Rocket System Crewmember (13M). He was assigned to the 1/623rd Field Artillery Regiment. His service included active-duty deployment to Jordan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, where he demonstrated exceptional courage and professionalism.
David earned numerous awards for his exemplary service, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, national Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, among others.
In addition to his military career, David also served his community with distinction as the District 7 Constable, where he embraced his role with the same sense of humor and dedication he brought to every aspect of his life. His service to the community further highlighted his commitment to protecting and uplifting those around him.
He is survived by his four daughters, his 10 beloved siblings who shared his love of laughter, his sense of humor, and an impressive collection of dad joke books that are now sacred family treasures.
Some of his daughter’s funniest memories include playing games of teddy bear, forehead slaps, writing random songs about cheeseburgers and inappropriate humor.
His look evolved from mullets to cowboy boots, bald heads and Shorty shorts. And in true people of Wal-Mart fashion. He didn’t care to make a fool of himself all in the name of “questionable” fashion and bringing a smile to others.
In lieu of tears, the family requests loud laughter, terrible jokes, Metallica music, and perhaps a moment of respectful silence (or not-so-silent tribute) to honor David’s legendary sense of humor.
ROCK ON DAD. The comedy club in the sky just got its best new performer and rocker.
He was born January 6, 1988, in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Gregory Daniel and Elda Kay Vincent Collins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Crystal Jean Collins in 1983; his maternal grandparents, Russell Vincent and Vivian Vincent; and his paternal grandparents, Joe Norris Collins Sr. and Ruth Wilma-Jean Jessee Wade
Survivors include, four daughters, Karsyn Elizabeth Collins, Layla Analise Collins, Kaylie Heaven McEachron (Timothy) and Abby Nicole McGowan all of Columbia; ten siblings, Monica Masha Hughes (Keith) of Russellville, Stephen Daniel Collins (Jamie) of Lebanon, Stacey Lynette Mosier (Sean) of Auburn, Stephanie Dawn Caldwell (Joe) of Beaver Dam, Angie Ruth Schultz (Charles) of Lebanon, Angela Faye Higgins of Russellville, Jessica Renee Williams of Summer Shade, Gregory Daniel Collins, Jr. (Kate Fiorito) of Bowling Green, Cammi Shaelyn Barry of Bowling Green and Sara Jean Wheeler (Mickey) of Columbia; 31 nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
A memorial service was held Sunday, December 8, 2024 at Grissom-Martin Funeral Home with Curtis Grant officiating.
Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in charge of arrangements
