Gary E Collins

Gary E. Collins, 76, of Monmouth, IL passed away at 7:07 pm, Thursday, December 31, 2020 at his home.

He was born on January 8, 1944 in LaHarpe, IL to his parents, Earl and Virginia (Dodd) Collins. Gary was raised and educated in Dallas City graduating from Dallas City High School in 1962. He went on to receive his Bachelor’s and Master's Degrees in Education Administration from Northeast Missouri State University in Kirksville, MO.

Gary married the love of his life, Catherine M.  Bertschi on June 20th, 1964 in Carthage, IL; she survives.

Gary taught for many years, starting at Central Junior High School in Monmouth, IL.  That is also where he developed his love for coaching. While at Central, he coached football and basketball. He went on to become a high school History and Consumer Economics teacher and coached boys’ and girls’ basketball for many years, even coaching his own daughters. He finished his career as the principal of Monmouth High School, retiring in 2001. He loved teaching and coaching so much and always said that is what he missed the most.

He was an avid golfer and was out on the course every chance he got. He especially loved playing at Gibson Woods in Monmouth. During spring breaks from school, he and a group of friends would take golf trips down south, enjoying the courses and the best seafood. He and his wife Cathy also took many trips with friends to some of his favorite places, Arizona, California and Hilton Head, SC. He loved the St. Louis Cardinals and his Chicago Bears like no other and enjoyed attending and watching games with friends and family.

Surviving is his loving wife, Cathy Collins of Monmouth, IL; his daughters Emily Collins of Monmouth, IL, Candace Collins (Bill Ell) of Burlington, IA and his special grandson, Jacob Jones and his family from   Monmouth, IL.  He had wonderful relationships with his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Robert Collins.

Cremation has been accorded.  Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions the family has decided to hold a Celebration of Life at a later date once the restrictions have been lifted.  Memorials may be given to the local charity of your choice and sent to the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL. is in charge of the arrangements.  For more information or to leave an online condolence please visit, www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com