Lynda Rhea Collier

Lynda Rhea Collier of Walland, Tennessee, passed away on August 16, 2024. 

Lynda was born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 13, 1941, then moved to Martin, Tennessee. A 1958 graduate of Martin High School, she went on to attend the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in 1962. She furthered her education by attending the Baptist Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1965. Eventually, Lynda earned a master’s degree from the University of Alaska and became a nurse midwife (American College of Nurse Midwifery.)

Lynda chose a long military career with the US Air Force beginning in 1966, and she retired in 1986 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. She spent several years of her career in Alaska which she loved dearly before settling in her present home in Walland.

Lynda will be greatly missed by her best friend and fellow veteran, Camille Perry, her nephew Roger Collier & his family, nephew Tony Collier, as well as her niece Andrea Fulton and her son Justin Fulton. She leaves behind many friends and her very special pets.

Anyone who knew Lynda will remember her wicked sense of humor, her love of all animals, her skills as a gourmet chef, and especially her love of outdoors and her garden. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Maryville/Alcoa Animal Shelter through the link below or by mailing your donation to 426 Home Ave, Maryville, TN 37801; Lynda would be thrilled to be honored in such a way.

A Celebration of Life will be held in October, with date and details to be shared at a later time.