Walter Dexter Collins, 88, of Winchester, departed this life peacefully, Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Lexington, after a long illness.
Also known by his family nickname “Toots,” he was born May 13, 1937, in Mt. Sterling, to Walter and Eva Collins. He grew up on a farm on Whitaker Lane. He graduated from Camargo High School, where he played basketball, and later served honorably in the United States Air Force for four years. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and member of the VFW, attended the Church of God, and retired as an equipment operator for East Kentucky Power Cooperative after 34 years. He was proud of his military service and often attended events honoring veterans. He was an avid University of Kentucky basketball fan and enjoyed fishing and shooting sports, and spending time with family and friends.
Survivors include his wife, Shirley Taulbee Collins; son, Brian Collins of Winchester; grandson, Capt. Chris (Katie) Collins of San Antonio, Texas; great-grandsons, Owen and Benjamin Collins; three sisters, Jeannette (Ray) Patrick of Winchester, Edwina (Dale) Honn of Lexington, and Pam (John) Lawson, of Florida; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two sisters, Phyllis Edens and Judy (Don) Davis.
Graveside service with Masonic and military honors was held Thursday, March 19, at Winchester Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Ray Patrick, Dale Honn, Shane Honn, Chris Davis, Randy Patrick, and Brian Collins.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or Hospice East.
Rolan G. Taylor Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
To sign the online guest book, visit www.rolantaylorfuneralhome.com.
“I’ll see you all in heaven.” – Walt
