Rondal Ray Collett

Rondal Ray Collett, beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away on December 25, 2023, at the Wells Hospice Care Center in Hazard, KY. Born on November 29, 1952, in Essie, KY, Rondal led a remarkable life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to his family and career.

Rondal's journey began with his pursuit of education. He earned an Associate Degree in auto mechanics at Ford Motor Company in Ypsilanti, Michigan. This laid the foundation for a successful career that spanned three decades at Ford Motor Co., where he worked in auto production as an expert in starter installation. Rondal's dedication and commitment were appreciated by his colleagues and superiors alike, as he retired after 30 years of distinguished service.

While Rondal achieved professional success, it was his unwavering love for his family that defined him. He was a man of deep compassion and concern for his loved ones but held a special place in his heart for his grandchildren. Rondal's presence brought joy and warmth to their lives; he nurtured them with love and taught them valuable life lessons that will forever be cherished.

Beyond his family role, Rondal possessed a great sense of humor that brought smiles to those around him. His ability to make others laugh was infectious and created lasting memories for all who knew him. He truly embodied the spirit of loyalty and was always there to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement.

Outside of work and family life, Rondal enjoyed various hobbies and interests. His passion for chickens and poultry reflected his nurturing nature as he cared for these creatures with utmost dedication. Additionally, Rondal had an affinity for classic cars; the beauty of older vehicles fascinated him. He referred to his classic Mercury Cyclone as "Big Bubba". In his free time, he could often be found tending to his garden or casting a line while fishing. Rondal's love for travel, particularly his trips to Las Vegas, provided him with excitement and new experiences.

Rondal's proudest accomplishments centered around his employment record at Ford Motor Co. and his affiliation with the Church of Christ. His dedication to both aspects of his life demonstrated his unwavering commitment and values.

Rondal will be deeply missed by his surviving family and friends, who were blessed to have shared their lives with such an extraordinary individual. He is survived by his loving wife, Brenda Batey Collett of Roark, KY; his son Brian Collett of Roark, KY; his daughter Stephanie Kimberlin and husband Eric of Manchester, KY; his daughter Jennifer Collett of Manchester, KY; his brother Larry Collett and wife Brenda of Essie, KY; his brother Burgie Collett of Essie, KY; his sister Rita Collett of Essie, KY; his sister Sherlene Smith and husband David of Stinnett, KY; grandchildren Steven, Brett & Nikita, Brice & Bobbie Jo, Landon, Lexi & Dalton, Kelsee and Conner, Rayeanna & Jordan, Tayler, Tanner, Brendan, Jamie Sue, James Jr., & Jarrod; as well as great-grandchildren Grayson, Skylar, Everett, Braxton,  Brody, Bentley. Blake, Vinny , D.J & Nathan.  Rondal also leaves surviving a very special friend, Lonnie Dean Brown.  Rondal was preceded in death by his parents, A.C. Collett and Virginia Sizemore Collett, and nephew, Jamie Collett.

The funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 P.M. - Saturday -December 30th at at the Dwayne Walker Funeral Home  in Hyden, KY., with Rev. Robert Amundsen & Rev. Ralph Brown officiating, Friends may call for visitation from 5-9:00 P.M. - Friday-December 29, 2023 at the Dwayne Walker Funeral Home.  The interment will follow the funeral service on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at the Collett Family Cemetery, located at Essie, KY.  The following will serve as pallbearers: Brett, Brice, Connor, Steven, Jordan, Brendan, Landon and Tanner.  Condolences may be extended to the family on our website.