Charles "Charlie" Henry Collins

Charles "Charlie" Henry Collins, a beloved figure in his community and a dedicated family man, passed away on September 11, 2025 in Morganton, GA, at the age of 76. Born on September 8, 1949, in Johnstown Pennsylvania, Charlie was a shining light to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Charlie's career was a testament to his craftsmanship and commitment to service. He was the founder of Star Creek Builders, where he took pride in creating loving homes for his family, friends and so many others in this community. Beyond his work as a builder, he devoted years to law enforcement, serving as a policeman in East Point, Atlanta and then a Deputy Sheriff with the City of Blue Ridge Police Department and later finishing as the Road Superintendent for the Fannin County Road Department. His dedication to his community and law enforcement was further exemplified during his service as a paratrooper in the US Army, where he earned a Purple Heart while bravely serving in the North Vietnamese War.

Educated at East Fannin High School and the Police Academy, Charlie also completed an apprenticeship in carpentry, which laid the foundation for his successful career in building. Throughout his life, he never met a stranger; his warm smile and loving nature left a profound impact on everyone around him. Charlie was known for his smart wit, vastly entertaining humor and unwavering generosity, and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He taught his daughters the importance of respect and empathy, instilling in them the value of treating others with kindness. His gentle guidance echoed the wise words he often imparted: "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."

Music was another passion of Charlie's. He had a deep love for bluegrass music and played various instruments including the guitar, banjo, keyboard and bass guitar. His fondness for music allowed him to connect with many and brought joy to his life and those around him. Many locals brought their instruments to The Infamous Collins Holler Fish Frys creating life long memories.

Charlie leaves behind his loving wife of 55 years, Berta Alicia Collins, his brother and sister-in-law Weyland and Leigh Collins, and his cherished daughters: Susan Ellen Mashburn (Robert Edwards), Stefanie Rene Collins, and Samantha Jo Collins (Kevin Garland). He was a proud grandfather to Justin Henry Mashburn (Mckinley "Roja" Baney) and Winston Charles Cornelius, and a great-grandfather to Braelynn Grace Mashburn.

He is predeceased by his parents, Floyd "Zebb" Collins and Mary Jo Kendall Collins, and his grandparents Willard Redix Collins and Ida Ellen Crisp Collins. Charlie's legacy of love, kindness, and steadfast friendship will continue to inspire and comfort those who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were touched by his whimsical spirit.

Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Charles H Collins; you may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranmcdaniel.com.