Dennis R. Collier, 82, passed away peacefully at home and in his sleep on Monday night after his 2 ^nd battle with cancer.

Denny was preceded in death by his wife Ann Teater Collier; his mother, Elsie Jacobs Collier; his father, Ed Collier; his brothers Donnie and Jerry, and his step-son James McKinney. He is survived by two brothers, Terry and Larry Collier, his son, D.R. Collier, Stepdaughters Bonnie McKinney Moss, Bobbi McKinney Zaunbrecher; cousins Jill Jumps Higginbotham and Lynn Jumps Keltz; Cousin Gloria Mitchell; grandchildren Emily Zaunbrecher, Zack Zaunbrecher, Rob McKinney and Sharon McKinney, who cared for Denny during his final years/weeks. Denny, aka Pops, was also a proud great grandfather of 5 great grandchildren and left many other family members and friends that mourn his passing.

Denny graduated from Paris High School in 1954. He was very proud of playing basketball for the legendary Ernie Eveland. He served in the U.S. Army and upon his return from service, earned a degree in mathematics from Indiana State University. He married Ann in 1965 and they were together for 44 years – until her death in 2009. He taught math and science in public high schools for most of his career – Paris, Catlin, Kankakee and Tuscola were among the districts for which he worked. His longest stay – eight years – was at Tuscola, where he is remembered fondly by students as "Cat" for his ability to catch students in various acts of tomfoolery. He was known for his ready sense of humor, his easy-going nature and his DYI skills – long before HGTV made it a "thing".

In the 60's and early 70's Denny and Ann took an interest in early Native American culture of East Central Illinois and with permission, spent weekends exploring farmers' fields in Douglas and Edgar counties. In 1976, Denny began to study painting and pursued that hobby for the remainder of his life, preferring to create acrylic landscapes. He was particularly interested in the work of local artists and most loved exhibits that featured them. He volunteered at the Paris Bicentennial Art Center and took great pride in the role of docent.

Throughout the years The Collier's home became a gathering place for numerous neighborhood children and home for several, most of whom have remained in contact and thought of Denny and Ann as family.

Services celebrating the life of Dennis Collier will be held on Saturday, November 3 ^rd at 10:00 am at the Paris Bicentennial Art Center, 132 Central Avenue, Paris, IL. 61944. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Paris Bicentennial Art Center.

Stewart and Carroll Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

For further information and online condolences, please visit www.stewartandcarrollfuneralhome.com