COLLINS

PILOT MOUNTAIN — Joel Naron Collins, 55, passed away peacefully at his home on March 15, 2013. He was born on Oct. 5, 1957. Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved son, and the joy of his life, Aaron Tyler Collins; sisters, Kathleen (Kay) Collins McCormick, Brenda Collins Boaz and husband Jeff Boaz; and nephews, Jay Boaz (Merry Craig) Ben Boaz (Jennifer), Justin Boaz (Karyn), Andrew Wright (Shana), Daniel Wright (Jennifer), and Robert McCormick. Also, the love of his life Pati Hepler and her daughter, Kora, the mother of his son, Aimee C. Stanley, and many friends and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wylie Claron and Nada White Collins. Growing up, Joey was a Boy Scout, and loved the scouting program very much. He attended East Surry High School, and loved playing East Surry football all through his high school years. He loved nature and the outdoors and was a Naturalist at Pilot Mountain State Park during his early years. He graduated from Appalachian State University, where he majored in biology and botany. He was employed by Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center-Bowman Gray-(Research Division). Joey loved music and played guitar and was part of a band for many years. He was a very talented musician and performed at many places and entertained many people. One of his favorite things to do and important gift to others was entertainining at his annual Christmas party each year, and his chicken stews in the fall. He also loved spending time at High Rock Lake on the water boating and fishing. He loved animals, plants, the outdoors, and any kind of nature. He enjoyed spending time on his farm in the Shoals community, gardening. He liked to freeze, can, and dry foods from his garden. He also thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his dog, Surry. But, in the end, he would tell you that his most cherished and important accomplishments in his life was his son, Tyler. He will be missed greatly by so many who loved him dearly. Visitation will be at 1 p.m. on Monday, March 18, 2013, with funeral services to follow at 2 p.m. at Cox-Needham Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to Forsyth County Human Society, 61 Miller St., Winston-Salem, NC 27104. Cox-Needham Funeral Home of Pilot Mountain (www.coxneedham.com, www.facebook.com/coxneedham) is respectfully serving the Collins family.