Graham Wayne Collins

Graham Wayne Collins, 55, of Russell, Kansas, passed away on Friday, January 09, 2026, at his home in rural Russell, Kansas.

Graham was born on September 29, 1970, in Garden City, Kansas, the son of Wayne and Celia “Sue” (Perkins) Collins. He was born and raised in Garden City, graduating from Garden City High School. On September 29, 1999, on his birthday, he was united in marriage to Sharon Christian in Russell, Kansas. The couple often joked that choosing his birthday ensured he would never forget their anniversary.

Graham dedicated his professional life to serving others. He began his career in Russell as a maintenance technician at the hospital, later transitioning to Emergency Medical Services after earning his EMT / EMT-I Certifications. Later Graham began his law enforcement career with the Russell County Sheriff’s Department where he served as a Sheriff's deputy. In 2017 he was promoted to Sergeant. He medically retired in 2025 after years of committed service to his community. Being an avid reader from a young age, Grahams’ extensive book collection reflected a lifelong love of learning. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors with family, particularly shooting guns and fishing the river.

Graham is survived by his wife, Sharon of the home; his parents, Wayne and Sue Collins of Gorham, KS; his daughters, Mirranda Collins and husband Jed of Garden City, Lauren Corley and husband Nathan, of Russell; his stepchildren, Mike Schneider and wife Clarissa of Russell, Bradley Schneider and wife Jillian of Nixa, MO, Brian Schneider and wife Kayla of Russell, Sarah Depiesse and husband Kelly of Hays, and Audrey Owens and husband Benjamin of Russell; his brother, Griff Collins of Bunker Hill; his sister, Gretchen Truan of Evans, CO; 22 Grandchildren, 3 nieces, 1 nephew, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Cremation has been selected by the family. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral arrangements.