The subject of this sketch was born in Early County, Georgia near
where the City of Arlington now stands on what was known as the
Perry Place at that time. But now the old Bostwick Home Place,
June 5, 1830.  He grew up as other country boys in that section
and early in life united with the Missionary Baptist Church at 
what was then known as Old Benevolence Church in Early County
and was baptized by Rev. John Martin.

On September 11, 1850 he married Miss Julia H. A. Perry, but she
died in 1863. Sometime later he married Miss Mary Francis Brunson
 of Calhoun County.  After his second marriage he made his home
in Calhoun County a few miles north east of Arlington, where he
lived until his death on January 12, 1905.

While living in Early County before his second marriage he was
clerk of the old Benevolence Church. After moving to Calhoun
County he placed his membership in the Salem Church where it
remained until his death.  Soon after joining the Salem Church
he was made Clerk of that church and also Deacon, which
offices he served until his declining health and old age forced
 him to resign.

Brother Collier assisted in the organization of the Baptist
Church at Arlington. He never missed a conference of his
church when it was possible for him to be present and rarely
if ever any service held in his church.  He was intensely
interested in the building of his church and in the surrounding
community.  In those pioneer days a good scribe, well-versed
in parliamentary law in great demand and hence without giving
up his work as Clerk of Salem Church he gladly lent his
services to the young and struggling church at Arlington,
and acted as its first Clerk. He was active in his efforts
to keep his church pure and free from members who disregarded
the requirements of the Christian religion, and at the church
conferences he felt it his duty to help those who were lacking
in this respect to leave off their bad habits and live Christian
lives.

His home duties were so arranged that he should not be absent
when there were services at his church.  His judgment was good,
and he was often called upon not only by his own church but by
others to advise them of the Baptist Doctrines and practices.
 His influence in his community reached out and affected all the
surrounding communities and churches with whom he came in contact.

Truly he was a pioneer layman of this section of the State.

 Submitted by Charlene Parker <laurel43@bellsouth.net> Sep 2002
Thanks!! Charlene from all of us.

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