US MILITARY VETERAN
Butler — Dr. Owen David Collins, 90, of Butler, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the River Valley Nursing Home, in Butler, after an extended illness.
Born on December 4, 1935, in Elkatawa, Breathitt County, Owen was a son of the late Cyrus William and Grace Gabbard Collins.
On August 17, 1961, he married Janice Taylor from Lexington, and together they enjoyed 64 years, living their faith, loving their family and friends, promoting education and a love of learning to all ages, experiencing adventures, and finding ways to help and support others. “Doc” graduated from Lees College, Jackson, Kentucky; Centre College, Danville; Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond; and the University of Kentucky with a Doctorate in Education. He taught in Breathitt County, held several administrative positions in public education, including serving as Academic Dean at Lees College, and finished his career as superintendent of schools in Wolfe and Pendleton Counties in Kentucky. “Doc” served his country faithfully in the National Guard, and he belonged to Christ’s Church at Eastside Park, Butler, where he took part in many church activities. For decades, “Doc” was a stalwart member of the Falmouth Rotary Club, having served as President where he contributed to many club projects, including their annual golf scramble, which he started, and several grant projects, educational scholarships, and community outreach events supporting the mission of the club.
Since his retirement in 1996, “Doc” has written extensively, primarily as a columnist in two weekly newspapers in Kentucky: “The Breathitt County Advocate” and “The Falmouth Outlook.” In addition he has published three books: “A Generation Bloodied but Unbowed,” “Rounding Third and Heading for Home,” and “A History of the Falmouth Rotary Club,” along with two community histories: “Morgan” and “Gardnersville” in Pendleton County, KY.
The epitome of a southern, scholarly gentleman, “Doc” shared his gifts of leading, teaching and writing in so many ways. An interesting and witty conversationalist, he looked forward to any healthy exchange among family, friends & colleagues, ready to support his argument and opinions and always willing to listen to the ideas of others.
“Doc” was also preceded in death by his daughter, Kelly Taylor Collins; and a son Kevin, Todd Collins.
In addition to his wife and best friend, of 64 years, Janice Collins, he is survived by one son, Mark Collins (Stephanie); five grandchildren, Elise, Luke, Hager, Olivia, Natalie Collins; his chosen family, Barry and Denise Hisel; and a host of extended family and friends.
Services were held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Christ’s Church at Eastside Park, with Bro. Mike Flynn and Adam McElfresh officiating.
Graveside services took place on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Jackson Cemetery, Jackson, KY.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to Oakdale Christian Academy: 5801 Beattyville Road, Jackson, KY 41339, the Falmouth Rotary Club (memo line: Kevin Todd Collins Memorial Scholarship), or the charity of one’s choice. Woodhead Funeral Home, Falmouth, is honored to serve the family.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodheadfuneralhome.com
OWEN COLLINS