Ralph "Eddie" Edward Collake

Ralph Edward Collake “Eddie,” age 83, of Morristown, Tennessee, passed away Wednesday, May 7, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on May 2, 1942, in Morristown, Tennessee, Eddie attended Morristown High School, where he played football earning his nickname “Rabbit.” He continued his education and football career at Carson Newman University, earning his degree in Mathematics. He owned and operated a successful furniture business, Quality Craft Inc., for 27 years. During retirement, Eddie worked at Food City where he developed many strong friendships and shared many smiles. Though Eddie was a man of few words, his heart spoke volumes. His quiet nature was matched by a tender heart and boundless generosity, always putting others before himself. Eddie was a devoted husband to Betty Collake, his wife of 57 years, and a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He found joy in supporting his grandchildren in all of their endeavors, playing golf, and most of all watching UT football. 

Eddie is survived by his wife, Betty Collake; daughters, Kelly Collake Bowen (David), and Tami Collake Price (Randall); grandchildren, Megan and Lauren Blaylock, Emma and Ethan (Brook) Bowen, Peyton Price Duttweiler (Colton) and Reygan Price; great-grandchildren, Bella Stout and Anniston Duttweiler; and his sister, Judy Collake Moses. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lila Velda Collake; his infant son, Lance Edward Collake; daughter, Robin Collake Blaylock; son-in-law, Jerry Blaylock; and his four brothers, Jimmy, Bobby, Gary, and Mike. 

A receiving of friends will be held on Sunday, May 11, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 PM, at Allen Funeral home. A funeral service will follow at 7 PM. Graveside services will be held on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM, in Hamblen Memory Gardens.

Allen Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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