Donald Collier

Donald O'Neal Collier was born on March 25, 1957, in Sturgis, Kentucky to his parents, William Franklin Thornton and Helen Louise Simpson Thornton. He was the third child born in the family. As a child, he was active in sports and he loved playing the drums. He would maintain that love of drums for the rest of his life. He was a happy child, who was full of cheer and carried a glowing smile. Donald received his formal education in Denver where he attended South High School. He furthered his education by attending the Denver Center for Dependent Living. He earned a Bachelor's of Art Degree in Psychology. Donald was the proud father of Donde, Michael and Portia. He was later blessed with grandchildren, Lae Loni, Michael, Keloni, Kalayah, Kesja, Marquel, Quincy, Jayda, Derrick and Devon. They lovingly called him" Papa Don" or Pops" and fondly remember all the happy and precious moments shared together. By profession, Donald was an I.B.M. Computer Operator by day and a Musician by night for the Caustion Band. He is remembered as being nice, kind and hard-working. Interestingly enough, he was surrounded by a large number of women in both of his day and night jobs. Even on his off days, he would be found practicing with the band or playing sports. Many of his closest friends to include Charles Lyles, Joey Lynch, Jonathan Green, Lester Fisher, his devoted companions, Portia Alexander and Maria Owens, just to name a few, shared a true and close friendships that have spanned over many years. He was the type of man, who never met a stranger. He was a great conversationalist, who enjoyed discussions on a wide array of subjects from news, to current events, sports and of course music. Donald will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known this one of a kind guy; who leaves a legacy of love and laughter and a void that can never be filled. To know Donald was to love him. Donald O'Neal Collier departed this life on August 31, 2016, in Denver, Colorado. Those left to cherish his memory and mourn his loss include 2 sons, Donde O. (Leslie) Collier of Denver and Michael E. (Keanna) Collier of Aurora; 1 daughter, Portia B. (Kenny) Pearson of Aurora; his devoted companions, Portia (Stephen) Alexander of Aurora and Maria Owens of Dallas, Texas; his grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Home: Pipkin Braswell Funerals and Cremation - 2050 Uinta Street, Denver, Colorado
Visitation: 9/9/2016 at 12:00 PM - Pipkin Braswell Chapel of Peace - 6601 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO
Service: 9/9/2016 at 2:00 PM - Pipkin Braswell Chapel of Peace - 3370 Ivy Street, Denver, CO