Garry D. Collins

Garry D. “Beak” Collins, age 65, of Mansfield, and Formerly of New London, Ohio, passed away Saturday, September 17, 2022, at Crystal Care Centers of Mansfield after battling numerous complications of diabetes. 

On October 16, 1956, Garry was born in New London, Ohio, a son of William L. “Bill” Collins and the late Zinia (Hall) Collins.  He graduated from New London High School in the Class of 1975. 

Over the years, Garry was a factory worker, a New London Police Officer and then spent 22 years as a corrections officer at Mansfield Correctional Institute, from where he retired. 

A significant part of Garry’s life revolved around playing, coaching, umping and watching sports.  His favorite teams were the Cincinnati Reds, Kentucky Wildcats basketball program and the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. 

Garry loved his family with all of his heart.  His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy.  He cherished time spent with family in Ohio and Kentucky.  Garry had a wonderful sense of humor and always enjoyed teasing and goofing around with the little kids in the family.

Left to cherish Garry’s memory are his three children: Stacey (Harvey) Zook of Mansfield, Brett (Breanna) Collins of Mansfield, Branden (Amber Lauer) Collins of Crestline; three grandchildren: Juniper Zook, Bristol and Blake Collins; his father, Bill Collins of New London; four siblings: William Collins Jr. of Wichita Falls, TX, and Yasothon, Thailand; Bob (Jeanene) Collins of Wellington, Delores (John) Kline of New London, Michael (Debbie) Collins of Lexington; uncles: Audis “RB” Hall of Greenwich; Kadous (Nancy) Hall of KY; numerous beloved nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and other extended family members. 

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by grandparents: William Riley and Anna (Mitchell) Collins, William “Tack” and Lizzie (Case) Hall, sister-in-law, Urai Collins; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Respecting Garry’s wishes, a graveside service will be held Friday September 23, 2022 at 12 PM at Ashland County Memorial Park.