Obituaries

David Carl Collins, 81, most recently of Independence, KY, passed away on July 7, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Hospital, Edgewood, KY surrounded by those he loved the most. Born on December 17, 1944, he was the son of Kenneth Collins and Agnes [Wichbach] Collins.

David was raised in Campbell County, KY, specifically Newport. It was there, at a bus stop, waiting to ride the bus to work where he met his lifelong love and companion, Diane Cook. David was a proud Army reservist.

David’s knack for precision led him to a career from which he retired as a mechanical/engineering draftsman for CG&E (now Duke Energy). He enjoyed his son Derek’s BMX racing and was the captain of their traveling team. Jokingly referred to as “the librarian” by those who knew him, David was reserved around strangers. You had to be in David’s inner circle to see the real him – someone who was funny and talkative. He will be greatly missed.

David was the beloved husband of Diane [Cook] Collins; dad to Derek Collins; grandpa to Chelsea Collins and Casey Collins; brother in law to Jeanette Newberry, Wayne Cook and Dee Collins. David will be missed and remembered by many other close extended family members, friends and his parish family at St. Cecilia.

Waiting by the heavenly gates to welcome him in were his parents; siblings Ronnie Collins, Paul Collins and Kenny Collins; sister in law Carlene Raso; and dear aunt Eva Hug.

David’s life and faith will be celebrated and the repose of his soul prayed for on Monday, July 27 at his home parish of St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, 5313 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051. Friends and family will gather to find solace in one another’s company and honor David. Please come to share stories and memories from 10:00 AM until shortly before the time of the funeral mass at 12:00 PM. Immediately following the mass, the rite of committal will be celebrated at St. Stephen Cemetery, 1523 Alexandria Pike, Fort Thomas, KY 41075. Services have been entrusted to Chambers & Grubbs Funeral Home, Independence, KY.

Memorial donations may be made directly to David's family via this link. You may also drop donations to Chambers & Grubbs, 11382 Madison Pike, Independence, KY, 41051 or call 859-344-5000 to donate over the phone.

David’s family would like to extend warm and heart felt thanks to anyone showing support, especially their parish family at St. Cecilia.