1
tree
planted in memory of Willie Clem Collins
Obituary for Willie Clem Collins
Willie Clem Collins passed away on June 4, 2026. Will was born on June 5, 1931, in Appling County, Georgia. He graduated from Surrency High School in 1949 and joined the U.S. Army, where he rose to the rank of Sergeant and served during the Korean War.
In 1952, he moved to Barnwell, South Carolina, and began working at the Savannah River Site. He worked for the majority of his career in the Reactor Division and retired in 1994 after 42 years of service.
Affectionately known as "Papa" by his family, he is survived by his wife of 67 years, Gertrude Collins; his son, Clem Collins, and daughter-in-law, Brannon Collins; his three grandchildren, Calli Collins, Cayton (Michael) Warmbold, and Cash (Natalie) Collins; and his three great-grandchildren, Hagen Warmbold, Brooks Warmbold, and Collins Warmbold.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the Mole Funeral Home Chapel in Barnwell, South Carolina. A graveside service with Masonic rites will follow immediately afterward at Barnwell County Memorial Cemetery.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Will’s name to Barnwell Harmony Lodge #17, PO BOX 1222, Barnwell, SC 29812.
To plant a tree in memory of Willie Clem Collins, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
Monday
8
Jun
2:00 PM
Mole Funeral Home
9399 Patterson Street
Barnwell, SC 29812
Service
Monday
8
Jun
3:00 PM
Mole Funeral Home
9399 Patterson Street
Barnwell, SC 29812
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