Richard “Rick” Oren Collier

Richard “Rick” Oren Collier, born in Blytheville, entered the presence of Jesus on Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022, at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro.

Rick was a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ and a longtime member of Armorel Baptist Church. He answered the call of God on his life by co-founding the Armorel-Huffman Volunteer Fire Department. Rick served more than 15 years as its first fire chief. Additionally, he retired from Source Gas after 30 years. After retirement, he enjoyed going to church and hosting and attending gospel singings with his wife and spending time with his family.

Rick’s love for God and people was evident to all who knew him. He was one of those rare souls who genuinely cared for others more than himself. Rick was generous and selfless, and never wanted recognition for the help he freely gave. Those who knew him will always remember his warm smile, his sense of humor and his big hugs.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Curtis and Bettye Jean (Goff) Collier; and father and mother-in-law, Thomas and Sarah Kirk.

Rick is survived by his wife of 42 years and the love of his life, Sheila Yuvonne (McCarroll) Collier of the home; son, Matthew Collier and his wife Jennifer of Rector; daughter, Alysha Fletcher and her husband Chad of Pontotoc, Miss.; grandchildren, Walter, Abigail and Benjamin Collier and Bailee, Hannah and Stella Fletcher; great-granddaughter, Ona Pearl Nelson; sister, Connie Collier of Little Rock; brother, Curt Collier of Manila; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Deborah (McCarroll) and Keith House; nieces, nephews, family and friends who loved him dearly.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Feb. 23, at 3 p.m. at Armorel Baptist Church with Rev. Matthew Collier, Rev. Matt Corkran and Rev. John Wofford officiating. Burial will be private. The family will receive friends from 2 p.m. until service time at Armorel Baptist Church. The family requests that any memorials be made in Rick’s honor to the Armorel Baptist Church or to the Armorel Fire Department. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.cobbfuneralhome.com.