Deslonde Collins, of Milan, TN, entered this world on November 4, 1942, the son of Thomas Hill and Lucie Worthington Collins.

He was united in marriage to Joan Milan Collins on December 28, 1964.

Deslonde, affectionately known as Desi and Coach by many, graduated from Olive Branch High School in Mississippi and earned a football scholarship to Northwest Community College in Sentatobia, MS before transferring to UT Martin where he earned a BS and Masters Degree in Education. He was captain of the UTM Football team his senior year and a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.

Coach Collins was a math teacher, guidance counselor and football coach at Milan High School 1969-1980 where he led his teams to two state championships in 1971 and 1977. During his teaching career he was named Jaycee's Outstanding Young Educator of the Year. Deslonde joined the Farm Bureau Insurance Company as an insurance agent in 1980 where he served the Gibson Co area until his retirement in 2005. He was inducted into the UTM Sports Hall of Fame in 2008. Deslonde was an avid fisherman, hunter and golfer.

Deslonde departed this life on February 20, 2025 at the age of 82.

He leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Joan Milan Collins of Milan, TN; a daughter Kim (Chet) Alexander of Martin, TN. He was preceded in death by a son, Andre Collins.

Ddaddy leaves behind two grandchildren, Collins (Hailey) Alexander of Nashville, TN and Kendall (Bronson) Bass of Martin, TN.

He is survived by a sister, Caroline Willoughby and two brothers, Tom Collins and George Collins.

He leaves behind many former football teammates and players that have remained in touch with him through the years and formed lasting friendships.

He was a member of St. Matthew Catholic Church in Milan, TN.

Funeral services will be Monday, February 24, 2025; 11:00 am at St. Matthew Catholic Church with Deacon JR Hobbs and nephew, Father Tom Collins; Burial to follow in Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday at 9:00 am until service time at 11:00 am.

In Lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to St. Matthew Catholic Church Renovation Fund in Milan, TN, Milan Mustard Seed, or charity of donor's choice.