Chowan celebrates the life of Clif Collins, who began serving as an employee at Chowan in 1965 through his retirement in 2001. He began as a residence hall director for men, then in 1967, became the interim registrar and dean of men. By 1968 he was serving as a residence hall director, director of housing, director of intramural sports, and teacher of one religion class. He was named director of financial aid in 1970 and continued his work as a residence hall director and director of counseling. He retired from Chowan in 2001 as the Director of Financial Aid.
During his 36 years at Chowan, he was very active in the athletic department, even marrying then Head Volleyball Coach Janet Harwood, now Janet Collins. He took the Head Coach of Cross Country position in 1973 and held that until 1975. For over 30 years, Collins was also a voice you heard over the Chowan Athletics PA system at many football, basketball, and volleyball games. He took great joy in training eager college students in the field of public address announcing on Chowan game days. Collins was especially skilled in calling volleyball and football games. His distinctive voice provided an extra layer of excitement on any game day he called. He graciously shared his knowledge with many, including those who continue to work in the Chowan athletic department to this day.
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Clifton "Clif" Shell Collins, age 87, passed away on Friday, June 30, 2023, at the Gates House Assisted Living in Gatesville, NC. He was born on September 10, 1935, in Emporia, Virginia, to the late Robert Franklin Collins and Nora Lee Shell Collins.
Clif was a graduate of Greensville County High School, Emporia, University of Richmond, Richmond, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, and East Carolina University, Greenville. He began his employment with Chowan University in 1965 as a residence hall director for men. He has served in many different capacities during his tenure at Chowan, being named director of financial aid in 1970. His many experiences with the University and students and his knowledge of finance, counseling, mathematics, and human nature prepared him to be an outstanding director of financial aid. In 1991 he was inducted into the Order of Lux et Veritas, and in 2001 he was named to the Chowan Sports Hall of Fame. Upon retirement in 2001 he was granted emeritus status, an honor permitting him to retain his title, director of financial aid. He was the first staff member to be given such recognition. During his retirement, Clif had ample time for his love of gardening, working in his yard, rabbit hunting, and fishing.
Clif was a devoted member of Murfreesboro Baptist Church, serving faithfully as a Deacon and as treasurer for many years. He was also a volunteer and charter member on the Murfreesboro Rescue Squad, a member of the Murfreesboro Exchange Club, a member of the North Carolina Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NCSFAA), and the Southern Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators. He also served as the press box announcer at Chowan football games for more than 30 years.
Clifton is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Janet, a brother, Lawrence Edward Collins; and many friends.
A celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at 10:00 am at Riverside Cemetery, with Rev. Rick Bailey officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Chowan University, Office of Advancement, One University Place, Murfreesboro, NC 27855; funds may be designated to the Collins Memorial Scholarship or online by clicking here or the Janet Harwood Collins and Clifton Shell Collins Volleyball Endowment or online by clicking here or Murfreesboro Baptist Church, 200 W. Main Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855 or online by clicking here.
Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Collins family, and online condolences can be directed to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com
