Ironton attorney J.B. Collier Sr. died at his residence this morning. He was 83.

Collier practiced law in Ironton for 52 years and was the father of Lawrence County Prosecutor J.B. Collier Jr.

Born in Ironton Sept. 25, 1920, Collier later served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. A B-29 airplane commander pilot, Collier flew combat missions against the Japanese and was decorated for his service. In 2000, he was named honorary grand marshal of the Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day parade, a position bestowed only on military veterans, usually with a record of distinctive service.

He attended Miami University in Oxford and State University of Iowa.

Collier was involved in numerous community endeavors. He served on the Ironton Board of Education in the mid 1960s, was president of the Ironton Rotary Club and was Central Committee Chairman of the Lawrence County Republican party. Lawrence County Auditor Ray T. Dutey, who is current chairman of the county Republican party, said he enjoyed working with Collier, and that Collier would be missed by those who knew him.

"He was a fine fellow," Dutey said. "He gave a lot for his country and he did a lot for Lawrence County. We've lost a good friend."

He was also a member of Christ Episcopal Church.

Arrangements are Pending at Phillips Funeral Home.