Gunner Ford Joshua Maness

Our precious son, Gunner Ford Joshua Collins-Maness, was born on 06/13/2025 and went to be with the Lord on 08/31/2025, cradled in the loving arms of his family. Though his time here was brief, his impact on our lives will last forever.

From the moment he arrived, Gunner filled our hearts with immeasurable love. His tiny hands, sweet face, and gentle spirit brought joy and hope to all who met him. He loved to have his hair brushed and loved bath time. Some of the NICU nurses called him Houdini because he would always break out of his swaddles. Whenever you talked to him he’d stick his tongue out at you or opened his eyes. He loved to grab things. He had a very feisty personality and let you know when he didn’t like something. Whenever you would take a picture of him, it’s like he knew and would always put his hands in front of his face. He also would just peep a little then automatically close his eyes when you would look at him. He fought til the very end and was a beautiful reminder of God’s love and grace.

In his short time, Gunner knew nothing but love. He was held, kissed, and cherished every moment of his life. He was mommy’s Sprinkle/Buggy boy and daddy’s Wiggle worm/Bubba. His family will forever remember the way he brought light into even the hardest days.

Gunner is deeply loved and will be missed by his parents, Kaylee and Dakota Maness. He is also cherished by his grandparents, great grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many others. He was welcomed in Heaven by his Aunt and Great-great grandparents.

A memorial service to celebrate Gunner’s life will be held on 10/11/25, 5pm at New River of Life Church, 6722 Dantedale Ln, Knoxville, TN 37918. Family and friends are invited to gather in love and remembrance.

Our family is especially grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff at UT NICU for their compassion and care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to https://www.utmedicalcenter.org/give-back/give-now and there is a box that says I want to support and you can click other and put the NICU. I would really like all the donations to go to UT NICU. And they also accept blankets and onesies as well.

Although his time on earth was short, Gunner’s memory will live forever in the hearts of those who love him.