Russell Collins

Russell Eugene "Rusty" Collins, 63, of Delbarton, West Virginia, passed away on July 6, 2025, at his home, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born on December 24, 1962, Rusty was known for his warmth, strength, & lasting impact he made on those around him. Rusty was born and raised in Matewan, West Virginia. After proudly serving his country in the United States Army, he returned home and spent most of his life driving a coal truck, a job that reflected his hard work and dedication. He continued his service to the community as a first responder with the Matewan Fire Department for 15 years, a role he carried with pride and commitment. Rusty was deeply rooted in the Appalachian way of life, he took pride in his work and his community. He found joy in simple things and was never happier than when he was outdoors. Rusty loved hunting, fishing, especially with his grandchildren, and riding motorcycles with his family and friends. He cherished time spent in the hills he called home, whether on back roads or deep in the woods, where he felt most at peace. Rusty was a storyteller, a porch-sitter, and the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back without thinking twice. He showed up for the people he loved and lived life with grit, loyalty, and love. Though he was a proud Paw to his own grandchildren, he was also lovingly known as “Paw” by many others, including Brantley and Benett Runyon, and Baylee, Enzo, and Tate Lendearo, all of whom held a special place in his heart. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed. He is survived by his loving wife, Rhonda Collins; his son, Russell “RJ” Collins (Laikin) his daughters, Anita Collins and Samantha Copley ( John). Rusty was a proud grandfather to Kierra “Madea” Collins, Jaxon Copley, Carson Copley, and Rustyn “Little Rusty” Collins. He is also survived by his sister, Elizabeth “Libby” Hall (Gary) and special friend Greg Bailey; Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Iva Collins; his brothers, David Collins and Michael Collins; and his sisters, Anita Gaye Collins and Sandra “Sandy” Collins Adams. . Funeral services will be held at the Chafin Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday July 12, 2025 at 1:00pm with Preacher Opie Harris officiating and special speaker and lifelong friend Randy Wood sharing words in Rusty’s honor. Burial will follow at Lenore Memorial Gardens, in Lenore, West Virginia. Visitation will be at funeral home Saturday from 11:00am until the start of the funeral at 1:00pm. Pallbearers: Rj Collins, Jaxon Copley, Carson Copley, Jonathan Collins, Gregory Bailey, Brian Lendearo and Shawn Toler. Rusty’s legacy of love, strength, and selfless service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Russell Collins

December 24, 1962 - July 6, 2025

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Russell Collins

December 24, 1962 - July 6, 2025

365 Days of Grief Support

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

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