Leonard Meyrel Collins, 82, of Cassville, Mo., passed away Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at his home.

He was born February 23, 1943, in Tulsa, Okla., the son of Clyde and Mable Cleo (Parris) Collins, who preceded him in death. 

Also preceding him in death was his wife Ruby Tunnell, and brothers, Bobby Collins and Carl “CL” Collins.

Survivors include his sons, Donnie Collins of Fla., and David Collins and wife Tracie of Broken Arrow, Okla.; seven grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.

He grew up and attended school in Tulsa, Okla., graduating from Tulsa Central High School. 

He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He moved to Cassville in 1985, coming from Collinsville, Okla. He enjoyed working in law enforcement. He was first employed by the Cassville Police Department before joining the Barry County Sheriff’s Department where he was employed from May 15, 1995 until August 31, 2019 from where he retired as a major. He previously owned and operated Seven Valleys Motel in Cassville. 

Private graveside services were held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Cassville, Mo., under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.