James "Mayo" Collins, age 94, of Crab Orchard, West Virginia, passed away Thursday, September 26, 2024 at Bowers Hospice House. Mayo was born February 05, 1930 in Pinetop, Kentucky, a son of Willy and Bridie (Hammonds) Collins.
Mayo is preceded in death by his loving wife, Linda L. Collins; parents Willy and Bridie Collins; sisters Veda Lois Bradley, Opaline Anderson, Cora Lee Asher, and brothers Cherry Daniel Collins and Stanford Collins. Mayo leaves behind to cherish his memory his son James Mayo Collins, II and his wife Misty; daughter Julie Ann Fields and her husband David; grandchildren Taylon, Hayden, and Ashton Collins, and Eli Fields; sister Mary Louise Profitt; brother Edwin Dale Collins; and many very special friends who will miss him dearly.
Mayo was a US Army Veteran having served from 1955 - 1957. Following the military he continued his career as a core driller. He married the love of his life, Linda L. Collins on May 22, 1969 and in 1974 he started his own business known as Mayo's Drilling Company. He continued to work until he was 85 years young. Mayo was an avid University of Kentucky basketball and football fan. He enjoyed spending time with his family going to bluegrass festivals.

Mayo was a simple man that will be missed by all who knew him and loved him.

Visitation will be Tuesday, October 1st, 2024 from 12:00 PM - 1:45 PM at Melton Mortuary and Cremation Center. Graveside Service will be held Tuesday, October 1, 2024, 2:00 PM at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens with Pastor Denny Hughes officiating. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Melton Mortuary and Cremation Center. Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.meltonmortuary.com