Former Scott County Community Foundation board member Don Collins Sr. passed away March 1 after a long battle with cancer. He was 73.

After graduating from the Indiana College of Mortuary Science in 1957, he began his lifelong funeral profession. In 1969, he moved his family into his newly-purchased funeral home.

Mr. Collins was very active in the community, serving through various government positions, including the office of Scott County Coroner for 18 years. He was a member of the Church of American Martyrs in Scottsburg, the Scottsburg Council 8052 Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis Club and more. In 2007 he was recipient of the Mayor’s Good Neighbor Award (pictured above).

He served as a founding board member for the Scott County Community Foundation from 1997 through 2001.

“Don's interest in his community is evidenced in endless ways that will provide a lasting legacy,” said Mary Buchanan, who served on the board at the same time as Don. “In a group he demonstrated a genuine charm that politicians wish they possessed.positive approach to challenges was an important ingredient in his successful life.”

“I had the privilege of serving with Don Collins on the Foundation board in the early years of the organization,” said Becky Wolf. “Not only did Don bring his valuable opinions and generousto the board, but he brought his wonderful personality that could lighten any dark cloud.He could alwaysa few minutes for you, no matter how busy he was and hecared about what you had to say.was my friend anda true pillar of our community and will be greatly missed.”

If you would like to make a donation in memory of Mr. Collins to the Scott County Community Foundation, please contact us at 752-2057.