It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of long-time First Unitarian member, Dr. Rosecrain Collins, Jr, on Sunday, Janaury 20, 2022, at the age of 92. Born in Nashville, TN, he attended public schools and graduated from Tennessee State University, receiving a B.S. degree in Biology in 1952. He served in the U. S. Army earning the rank of Sergeant before graduating from Meharry Medical College with a Doctor of Dental Science degree.
He was a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, Chicago Dental Society, and Lincoln Dental Society. He was also active in the Royal Coterie of Snakes and Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Beta Boule.
As a practicing dentist on Chicago’s south side, Rosecrain opened his first office in 1958 at what is now 51st Street and Martin Luther King Drive. He practiced there for over 12 years before moving to the Hyde Park Bank Building where he remained for over 27 years. He retired in 1998 after practicing for 40 years.
He married his wife, Ann, in July 1959. The couple had two daughters, Michelle Collins and Adrienne King who were raised here at First U. “First church is a family affair for me,” he once said. “I find spiritual renewal and reinforcement of family values when I attend.”
He served as an usher at church services and participated in other church activities. In a First U membership interview, he chimed, “To my mind, the church plays a vital role in our community, providing a check and balance regarding the rights and treatment of all.”
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Elizabeth Ann, daughters, Michelle Lynn and Adrienne Lea King (Erik); grandchildren, Jonathan, Wilson and Benjamin; six siblings; and a host of nieces and nephews. A family memorial service will take place on the family farm in Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Rosecrain Collins, Jr. DDS Scholarship Fund. Online: https://registration.mmc.edu/giving.html or send checks payable to Meharry Medical College (memo: Rosecrain Collins, Jr., DDS Scholarship fund), Gift Management Services, Hulda Margaret Lyttle Hall, 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd, Jr. Blvd., Nashville, TN, 37208.