Clarence G. "C.G." "Squeak" Collins

Clarence G. "CG" "Squeak" Collins, 86, was born on February 20, 1940, in Shawneetown, Illinois, and passed away peacefully at his home on June 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

CG was the oldest son of Kelly C. and Almira Dempsey Collins of Carmi, Illinois. He married the love of his life, Lynda Simmons, on May 7, 1966, in St. Clair, Michigan, beginning a marriage that would span six decades.

A man of deep faith, CG made his profession of faith and was baptized at Maunee Methodist Church in Maunee, Illinois. He graduated from Carmi High School before attending Murray State University and Campbellsville College on a basketball scholarship, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. While attending Campbellsville College, he was among the students who helped establish the Lebanon House. He later attended the University of Texas, where he earned his degree in Petroleum Engineering.

Together, CG and Lynda built Collins Petroleum, a business that provided employment opportunities for many throughout the community. His leadership extended far beyond his business endeavors. He served as President of the Chamber of Commerce, helping attract and support numerous businesses in the area. He later became President of the Kentucky Oil and Gas Association and was instrumental in helping establish the Tennessee Oil and Gas Association. His contributions to the industry were recognized when he was named Tennessee Oilman of the Year.

CG remained deeply committed to Campbellsville College throughout his life, supporting student-athletes, participating in alumni activities, and serving as an announcer for countless sporting events. He also served on the Board of Trustees for Lindsey Wilson College. One of his greatest legacies was the encouragement, mentorship, and generosity he shared with others. He touched countless lives throughout Campbellsville, Corbin, Lexington, and many other Emmaus communities.

Several generations of athletes and fans will remember CG's familiar voice from the announcer's booth at Miller Park and Trace Creek. He was a steadfast supporter of local schools, churches, community events, fish fries, and charitable causes. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

CG is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Lynda Collins; his daughters, Kellie Bland (Billy), Susie Wilson (Shannon) of Campbellsville, and Natalie McVay (Allen) of Hopkinsville.

He was the proud grandfather of twelve grandchildren: TC Bland (Misty) of Rogersville, Tennessee; Brandon Mackie (Danielle) of Greensburg, Kentucky; Zac Mackie (Annette) of Hanahan, South Carolina; Kayla Curtis (Steven)Lebanon, KY; Morgan Wills (Cody) of Campbellsville, Kentucky; Griffin Wilson (Olivia) of Bardstown, Kentucky; Emerson, Carlee, Cobe, Hannah, Allisa, and Kourtney McVay of Hopkinsville, Kentucky.

He was also blessed with fifteen great-grandchildren: Braylee, Drew, Amber, Madison, Jaxon, Caroline, Meredith, and Mila Mackie of Greensburg, Kentucky; Cali, Norah, Gordon and Andi Wills of Campbellsville, Kentucky; Zoey and Oakley Curtis of Lebanon, Kentucky; and Maddie Bland of Rogersville, Tennessee.

CG is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, William K. "Bill" and Connie Collins of Campbellsville, Kentucky. A host of nieces and nephews and many other relatives and friends. CG was honored to open the doors of his home to many “bonus children” throughout his lifetime.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kelly and Almira Collins, and his brother, Robert Warren Collins of Carmi, Illinois.

CG's life was defined by faith, family, hard work, generosity, and a commitment to his community. His impact will continue to be felt through the countless lives he touched, the family he loved so dearly, and the legacy he leaves behind.

FUNERAL SERVICE: 1:00 P.M., Monday, June 29, 2026 at Parrott & Ramsey Funeral Home in Campbellsville

ENTOMBMENT: Campbellsville Memorial Gardens Mausoleum

EXPRESSIONS OF SYMPATHY REQUESTED TO BE DONATIONS TO GIDEON BIBLES AND MAY BE MADE AT PARROTT & RAMSEY FUNERAL HOME