March 16, 1946 – October 6, 2025

Barry Richard Collins, 79, of Anderson, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 6, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved and lived for.
Born March 16, 1946, in Gaston, Indiana to Roscoe and Ann Collins. Barry grew up in his small bedroom where his wide-open childhood helped shape a lifelong sense of gratitude, curiosity, and humility. He graduated from Gaston High School and soon began a career at the Guide Lamp Division of General Motors in Anderson.
For decades, Barry poured his heart into his work, rising from the factory floor to become a UAW training instructor specializing in design of experiments and process improvement. Known for his patience, skill, and quiet leadership, he mentored countless coworkers and took pride in helping others succeed. His calm demeanor, sharp mind, and steady hands reflected the same values his father once taught him — to stay the course, work hard, and make things better than you found them.
Barry was a man of simple pleasures and steady joys. He loved woodworking, crosswords, old movies, golf, and a good cup of coffee. He was fascinated by science, space, and Star Trek, and he could often be found tinkering in his woodshop or sharing popcorn and a Reese's cup with his dog, Bentley.
He married Beckie (Becraft) Collins, his devoted wife of nearly fifty years, who stood beside him through every chapter. He was also the proud father of Kevin, Brian, and Stephanie; grandfather to Brandon, Abbey, Cameron, Stephen, and Ashley; great grandfather to Katherine and Anna; He was also a loving brother to Janice. Barry's quiet guidance and kind humor shaped generations — he led not through words, but by the enduring example of how he lived.
After retiring from GM, Barry continued to give back through work with the Church of God, where he handled maintenance and classroom setups, always happiest when lending a hand.
Those who knew Barry will remember his humility, generosity, and steadfast spirit. He built his life with patience and precision, and in doing so, built a legacy of love that will live on in his family and all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that loved ones honor Barry by taking time to build something with their hands, help a neighbor, or simply enjoy a quiet morning coffee — the way he did, every day.

Visitation will be October 15,2025 from 11:00am until 1:00pm at Garden View Funeral Home, 10501 N State Road 3, Muncie, IN 47303