Dennis Ralph Collier, 72, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024 following a lengthy illness, left his worn and weary earthly body and went home to be with Jesus. He was born December 23, 1951 to Ralph and Ruby Collier of the Nahunta community where he remained until his marriage to Cindy in July 2008.
From the time he was born, he endured many physical challenges, resulting in multiple surgeries, many of which were experimental and were performed at Duke University Hospital. Perhaps that influenced him becoming a die-hard Duke basketball fan.
Prior to his illness, in addition to Duke basketball, Dennis enjoyed golf with Randy and fishing with Cindy. His family and friends were of utmost importance to Dennis.
Dennis is survived by his wife Cindy Collier who was the love of his life, daughter April Collier (James) who was the light of his life, and the apple of his eye, granddaughter Brooklyn Henderson. Also surviving are his sister Janet Bridgers (Freddie), nephews Jason (Rachel) and Adam (Katie) Bridgers, great nephew James Bridgers and life-long best friend Randy Fields. Also surviving are his bonus siblings, Mickey Waddell (Carolyn) and Debbie Edgerton (Pat) as well as bonus children and grandchildren, Emily (Phillip) and Nevaeh Lennon and Kyle (Emily), Tristan and Delilah Bass.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Ruby Collier and his step-father Lester Waddell.
Dennis leaves behind many cherished friends whom he loved dearly and whom enriched his life so much.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Riverside Independent Baptist Church. A service to celebrate Dennis’ life will be held in the sanctuary at 4:00 p.m. with Pastor Ken Bartholomew officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Flowers are welcome, or memorials may be sent to Riverside Independent Baptist Church, 1321 Old Dam Road, Kenly NC 27542 in memory of Dennis.
Services have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.kenlyfs.com.
