William Collier

William Thomas began his earthly journey, to the delight of his parents, Warren Elvis Collier and Georgia Walker Collier, on September 19, 1930 in Danville, Illinois. His wife, Mattie Pearl Kimbrough Collier and parents preceded him in death.

He expressed his faith in Christ early in life and was a faithful member of Greater Ebenezer AME Church. He dutifully served as a member of the Male Choir, Usher Board, Finance Committee, attending Sunday School and Bible Study. He loved God, his church family and was active until failing health affected his ability to attend.

William received his early education in the Illinois Public Schools and earned his GED in 1961. He proudly served as a Stock Control Supervisor in the US Army with tours of duty in Vietnam and Korea. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and was the recipient of numerous awards, such as the Good Conduct Medal (6 ^th Award), Republic of Vietnam Campaign (w/60 Devices)Vietnam Service Medal (w/1 Campaign Star) National Defense Service Medal (w/1 ^st OLC), Sharpshooter Badge (Rifle M-14) and Army Commendation Medal. On January 31, 1969, after more than 21 years of dedicated service he retired. After the military, William worked as a Foam Installation Supervisor with State Stove Industries for many years before retiring again. He also worked as a barber and plumber installing water heaters.

On September 12, 1950, he united in holy matrimony with the love of his life, Mattie Pearl Kimbrough and this union was blessed with a son.

William was a kind and gentle man who was known for barbequing the best ribs and chicken, his signature “red sauce” and he enjoyed teaching others how to barbeque. If you did well he would say “White Coat” signaling his approval. He loved spending time with family and friends, listening to jazz and R&B music and sports. All who knew and loved him will sorely miss his presence.

On Thursday, January 28, 2021, William answered God’s beckoning call to cease from his earthly labors and entered into eternal peace. Loved ones left to cherish his memory are his son, Dewayne Keith Collier, Clarksville, TN and a host of relatives and friends. Graveside 11:00 a.m.Monday, February 15, 2021 at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West, Hopkinsville, KY