(WARRENSBURG, Mo.) – Jesse T. Collins, 97, of Warrensburg, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012 at his residence.

Jesse was born Jan. 7, 1915 in Aullville, Mo., son of Leonard M. and Ella (Oldham) Collins. From age 10, he was raised in Leavenworth, Kan. and Independence, Mo. In his teenage years, he moved back to the Mt. Olive Community near Warrensburg.

Jesse married Norma Cole in 1937 in Mayview, Mo. She preceded him in death. On Aug. 20, 1945, he married Barbara Jean Jefferson in Warrensburg. She preceded him in death. He married Frances Louise Hobson on Sept. 28, 1980 in Warrensburg. She also preceded him in death.

Jesse was a farmer by trade. For years, he also worked in construction, including concrete. Later, he was employed at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, retiring in 1980. He founded Jesus Saves Pentecostal Church in Warrensburg and was the pastor there for over 44 years. He also served as a Senior District Elder of the Northwestern District Council of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World Inc. Jesse’s interests included history, gardening and raising animals.

Survivors include two sons: Morris Collins and wife, Loretta of Warrensburg, and Mike Collins and wife, Brenda, also of Warrensburg; two daughters: Karen S. Levine of Warrensburg, and Mary J. Roberson and husband, Willie, also of Warrensburg; one daughter-in-law: Gladys Collins of Richmond, Mo.; eighteen grandchildren; thirty-two great grandchildren; nine great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

In addition to his wives, he was preceded in death by a son: Jesse Collins, Jr.; an infant daughter; stepdaughter: Juanita Collins; five brothers: Russell, Leonard, James, Lessie and John and one sister: Viola Neal.

There will be a Visitation/Celebration Service from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24, 2012 at Jesus Saves Pentecostal church, 400 West Culton, Warrensburg.

There will be a Home Going Service at 12 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012, also at the church, with Bishop Harry D. Stevens officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Hill Cemetery in Warrensburg. Pallbearers will be Keith Collins, Kevin Collins, Steven O’Dell, Kellon O’Dell, Seth Collins and Caleb Collins. Honorary Pallbearers will be Jamie Levine-Jordan, Christa Collins, Ronelle Watts, Stevie Hardin, Sky Roberson and Jaylen Levine.

Memorial Contributions are suggested to Jesus Saves Pentecostal Church. Arrangements entrusted to Williams Funeral Chapel in Warrensburg.