Dorothy Jean Collins, known to many as Dorthy, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Baptist Health in Corbin, Kentucky. Born on August 11, 1955, in Knox County, Kentucky, she lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and a deep love for God and family.
Dorthy worked for many years as a dedicated Merchandise Receiver with JC Penney in Corbin, where her diligence and attention to detail were greatly valued. She also served her community with compassion as an EMT with Knox County Ambulance, touching many lives during times of need. In recognition of her service, she was honored as a Kentucky Colonel. A vibrant and active member of Hopewell Baptist Church, she shared her musical gifts by playing guitar there.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John Henry Lawson and Earsie Owens Lawson, and by her “mom,” Rita Lawson.
Dorthy is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Raymond Collins, whom she married on May 8, 1971. She is also survived by her brothers, Walter Lawson, Charles Lawson, Freddy Lawson, Johnny Lawson, and Paul Lawson; her sisters, Lovella Donaldson, Sheila Hampton, Roberta Montgomery, Sherry Wolf, and Yvonne Krogman; and by many nieces, nephews, cousins, her church family, and dear friends, including her bonus family Crissy, Betsy, Russell, Mark, Brooke, Brinley, Paisley, Grayson, and Kyria.
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