John Carroll Collier, 82 of Ellisville, MS passed away Friday, July 14, 2023, at South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, MS after a long-fought battle with cancer. Always a warrior, he fought the good fight.

He was born Saturday, April 26, 1941, in Carroll County, Mississippi. He entered the army at a young age and served in the Vietnam War, retiring after 20 years. He was a fun-loving guy, loved family get togethers, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas. He really enjoyed being "Papa" to the family. His favorite pastimes were reading, watching old westerns and action movies. He loved new technology and was always looking for the latest, greatest gadget.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, from 12:30PM until 1:00PM at Big Creek Cemetery in Soso, MS. A Graveside service will be held on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at 1:00PM at Big Creek Cemetery in Soso, MS. Burial will follow in Big Creek Cemetery in Soso, Mississippi.  Pastor Paul Carpenter will officiate. Ellisville Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 601-477-3797.

He was preceded in death by his parents, R.W and Thelma Collier; brother, Bruce Collier, Sr.; nephews, Bruce Collier, Jr. and Marcus Smith; niece, Glenda Johnson.

Survivors include his wife of 18 years, Ruth Collier; children, William Harold Collier (Robin), Carol Tanner, Julie  Smith  (Danny), Beth  Allen (Jeff), and Todd Blackledge (Kay); grandchildren, Paula Collier, Kristen Heidelberg (James), Katie Carpenter (David), Tyler Blackledge (Hannah), Alex Petersen (Raven), Kayla Howell (Jansen) and Trace  Allen; brothers, Richard Collier, Ralph Collier (Virginia), Eddie Collier (Kathy);  sisters, Nell Smittle, and Tempes Parnell; great grandchild, Abby, Kason, Bailey, Riley, Briar, and Beaux;  nieces, Darla, Amy, Jennifer Julie, and Ashley.

Pallbearers will be Jeff Allen, Charles Yates, David Carpenter, Tyler Blackledge, Alex Petersen, and Trace Allen.

Papa will be greatly missed by all especially his faithful companion Buddy.

A special thanks to friends and family for their prayers and loving care.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com