Leland Ray Collier

Leland Ray Collier, 84, passed away on December 15, 2025. He was born on July 3, 1941, in Green River, Wyoming. Leland lived a life rooted in service, dedication, and a deep love for family. He was known for his steady optimism, gentle nature, and quiet strength. He faced life with patience and positivity, offering encouragement to those around him and never raising his voice.

Leland proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. He worked as an X-ray technician and served in Desert Shield and Desert Storm. While in uniform, he earned his radiology technician qualification. After his military service, Leland continued serving others as a business administrator for the Veterans Hospital, where he supported veterans and their families with the same calm dedication that defined his life.

Raised on a farm in Iowa as one of eight siblings, Leland carried those early values with him throughout his life. He was a good old country boy at heart and a true gentleman. Leland had a remarkable ability to watch something once and then figure out how to build or fix it himself. Known to many as Mr. Fix-It, he could repair just about anything. His skills shone through countless projects over the years, including his collection of nearly 80 clocks, each cared for with pride and patience.

Leland enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved watching westerns, especially on the GRIT Channel, sharing jokes, and enjoying an ice-cold, cheap beer. Although he often said he never wanted pets, his actions said otherwise. His dogs, Bo, Maggie, Shiloh, and Gabe, completely won his heart. He showed his love for them in practical ways, including building them a custom doghouse with air conditioning.

Family meant everything to Leland. He was a devoted father to Teresa (Jim) Mason, Anthony (Setsuko) Stallings, and Joseph(Chelsey) Collier. He was a proud grandfather to Zach Glass, Zoie Glass, Aidan James Collier, and Charlotte Collier, all of whom brought him great joy. He is also survived by his siblings,Michael (Lynn) Collier, Joseph Collier, and Jerry (Christeen) Collier.

Leland is also survived by close friends who were more like family, including Nilima Renukdas and Tom and Nancy Wozniak, as well as many other relatives and friends who will miss his steady presence, kind heart, and positive outlook.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Bettye Jean Collier; his son, Matthew Wayne Collier; his parents, Arthur Granville and Eiliene V. Collier; and his brothers Jack, Steven, Arthur, and James Collier.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Leland will be laid to rest at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 W. Maryland Ave., in North Little Rock on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the caring staff at The Manor, to Lisa K. with Home Health, and to the nurses of the Saline Memorial Hospital ICU for the compassion, dignity, and kindness shown to Leland and his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Leland’s name to Disabled American Veterans, the Saline County Humane Society, or the Cherokee Nation Foundation, organizations that were especially close to his heart.

Leland Ray Collier will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He will be remembered for his calm spirit, steady optimism, willingness to help, and the quiet way he loved his family and friends.