With profound sadness and much love, we announce the passing of Joseph “Joe” Barnard Collier, 92, of Arab, Alabama. Joe passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love and presence of his three stepdaughters, Kelly Dickson Harter, Jennifer Seibold Rice, and Holli Seibold Helms.
Joe leaves behind a family who loved him dearly, including his grandchildren Jessica Rice Cobb, Joshua Helms, and Julia Rice; great grandchildren Jayci Cobb, Jaxon Cobb, and Grayson Morrow; nephews Mike Collier, Steve Collier (Andre’ ), Joey Collier, and Jeff Collier; his beloved niece Carole Collier Sharp (Tim); four great nephews Peter “Pete” Sharp, Andrew “Drew” Collier, T.J. Wilson, and Brian Sharp and several cherished cousins.
Born in Decatur, Alabama, on November 5, 1933, Joe was the son of Elkin R. and Lula Barnard Collier. He graduated from Auburn University in 1956 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He proudly served in the Navy and the Reserves for more than 25 years, a commitment that reflected his discipline, humility, and devotion to service. Joe later built a career as an engineer at the Arsenal in Huntsville and, in time, became a Certified Master Gardener.
Joe was honored as a member of the Morgan County Sports Hall of Fame, a distinction that reflected his lifelong love of athletics, community, and the values of dedication and teamwork.
He found joy in the simple, meaningful rhythms of life: working in the yard, tending his garden, and enjoying fellowship with his friends at the Arab Church of Christ. Joe and his late wife, Judy Saylor Collier, traveled to countless Alabama and Auburn football games, and they were devoted supporters of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, attending basketball, volleyball, and many other school events.
In his spare time, Joe could often be found tinkering in his shed or working on a project at the farm. He was never one to sit still for long; there was always something to fix, build, improve, or tend. That steady energy and quiet determination became part of what those who loved him will remember most.
Above all, Joe was devoted to his faith and his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elkin R. and Lula Barnard Collier; his brother, Michael R. Collier, and Michael’s wife, Betty Q. Collier; his brother, David W. Collier; and his beloved wife of almost 30 years, Judy Saylor Collier.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at the Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel. Visitation will be 10:00 until 11:00am. The funeral service will follow at 11:00am with Brother Ken Tyler officiating. Burial will be in Arab Memorial Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Joshua Helms, Steve Collier, Mike Collier, Tyler Clifton, Peter Sharp and Tim Sharp. Honorary pallbearers are Robbie Rice, Dave Clifton, John Marcous, Joey Collier, Jeff Collier and Luther Saylor. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Arab Historical Society in Joe’s memory. Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel assisting with arrangements.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Barfield Health Care and the MICU at Huntsville Hospital for the care, support, and kindness shown to Joe and his family during his final days.
