Jerry Joseph Collings, 87, passed away peacefully in his home on June 12, 2026. Born on October 23, 1938, in Danville, Illinois, he was shaped by the values of hard work, community, and family, which would shape the man he would become.

Jerry answered his country’s call by proudly serving three years in the United States Air Force as a mechanic. After his service, he built a life defined by skill, determination, and resourcefulness. A gifted mechanic and crew boat captain, among other things, Jerry could fix virtually anything he put his hands to — a talent that earned him the admiration of everyone who knew him.

When he wasn’t working, Jerry was living. He loved to dance, sing his favorite songs at karaoke, and was the life of the party wherever he went. He was known for his crass sense of humor, witty comebacks, and infectious laugh. He enjoyed his Crown Royal, Miller Lite, and his Nestle Drumstick ice cream, which he always shared with the kids.

In his younger days, he also enjoyed a day on the water, boating, or feeling the roar of the engines at NASCAR races. But above all else, Jerry treasured time with his family — the people who were the true center of his world.

Jerry is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara; his father, Van; his mother, Margaret; his brother, Robert; his sisters, Shirley and Peggy; and his grandson, Harold.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carol; his sister Patricia Veatch, and his children: Jackie (Dude) Landrum, Michelle (Thomas) Hisle, Christian Collings, Jason (Michelle) Collings, Jeremy (Rhonda) Collings, Rick Collings, Ann Collings, Joann Collings, Renee Collings, Debra Hackett, Tammy Collings, Mandana (Ashley) Martin-Collings, and Courtney Cox.

Jerry was a proud grandfather to Cassandra, Amelia, Christian (CJ), Zachary, Paegan, Derek, Ashley, Robert (Bobby), Jennifer, Jessica, Caleb, Preslee, Kristin, Victoria, Ally, Jacob, Jamie, Heather, Brittney, Taylor, Bobby, Rayney, Taydee, Kira, Joshua, Raelynn, Austin, and Katie. He also leaves behind several cherished nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at the VFW #6386 on June 27, 2026, at 3:00 PM located at 1452 SH-361, Ingleside, Texas.

A guestbook is available online at www.resthavenfunerals.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home, Aransas Pass, Texas.

“Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.”