Thomas Hale Collis, 86, of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, passed away on August 17, 2023, in his hometown. Born on April 23, 1937, in Spruce Pine, Thomas, also known as Tom, led a remarkable life filled with love, service, and dedication.
Tom had a servant’s heart, and his true calling in life was with the Gideons International. He passionately spoke at churches, inspiring men and wom en to embrace the loving grace of Christ through the simple act of donating a few dollars to provide Bibles. Tom also had a love for travel and reading, finding solace in his favorite chair at home with a piece of chocolate cake, cheddar cheese, and a cup of coffee, immersed in the pages of a Louis L’Amore book.
Thomas Collis is survived by his loving wife, Patricia McKinney Collis, who stood by his side throughout their journey together. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for his children: Susan Collis Henderson (Greg) of Morganton, NC, Lori Collis Hall (Randy) of Spruce Pine, NC, and Mark Collis (Michelle) of Mount Holly, NC. Tom is also survived by his brother, Leon Collis (Faye) of Gastonia, NC, and sister Sarah Stump (Charlie) of Winston Salem, NC. His memory will forever be treasured by his 7 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.
Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen Trivett Collis, as well as his father, Thad Collis, mother, Ruby Collis, brother, Bobby Collis, sister, Betty Jean Stotts, sister, Mary Sue Collis, sister, Elaine Collis, and brother Roger Collis.
In addition to his remarkable life, Tom served with honor and distinction in the US Army 101st Airborne Division. His dedication to duty and commitment to his fellow soldiers will always be remembered.
Tom’s career was marked by his passion for selling cars. With his charismatic personality, he built a loyal customer base who returned time after time. He proudly proclaimed that Subaru was the finest car ever made.
A ceremony to celebrate the life of Thomas Hale Collis will be held on Monday, August 21th, at 2:00 pm at Liberty Hill Baptist Church in Spruce Pine, NC with Rev. Don Stafford and Rev. Brent Frady officiating. Prior to the service, the family will receive friends from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the church. Pall bearers will be Tom’s beloved Sons in law and Grandsons.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to Gideons International c/o Mitchell County Camp P.O. Box 611 Spruce Pine, NC 28777 or Hospice of the Blue Ridge 236 Hospital Drive Spruce Pine, NC 28777. These organizations held a special place in Tom’s heart, and your support would honor his memory and continue thank you to all the staff of Hospice of the Blue Ridge especially Mike Collis, Alisha Heflin, Adam Davis and Mike Murphy for their compassionate care.
Thomas Hale Collis was a remarkable man who touched the lives of many. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his love, kindness, and unwavering faith.
Words of comfort may be e-mailed to the family by going to our website; www.webbfh.com, selecting Tom Collis’s name and then you may sign his guestbook. Webb Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements for Mr. Collis and is honored to be serving the Collis family. Mr. Collis’s obituary has also been posted on Facebook for viewing.
