James Collins

It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of James Joseph Collins, 97, a beloved spouse, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, on the 5th day of February 2025. Born in 1927 in Brooklyn, James lived a long, fulfilling life, dedicated to family, hard work, and kindness. James served in the US Marine Corp from April 1945- April 1949. He spoke fondly of his service, exploration of the world and loved to tell stories about this part of his life. Upon discharge from the US Marine Corp, he met Christine and a wonderful courtship began, culminating with marriage in July 1951. James spent his working career with one company from which he retired in 1992. He was known for his tireless work ethic. As a devoted father of nine children, he embodied resilience and a boundless capacity for love. He was a steadfast presence, offering wisdom and guidance to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. After retirement, he and Christine traveled exploring the US. In his later years, James enjoyed baseball - especially the New York Yankees - word puzzles, Sudoku, walking, and spending time with his large family, which brought him joy and kept him young. He never refused a vanilla ice cream. He had a unique ability to ensure each person he encountered felt special. James was predeceased by his loving spouse, Christina Collins n�e Morey, his wonderful mother Harriette Collins n�e Kiley, and siblings: Edward Collins, Harriette Moore n�e Collins and Grace Parkins n�e Collins. He is survived by his nine children and their spouses: Karen (Bruce) Gilbertson, Patricia (Frank) Senatore, Darline, Deborah (Kevin) McGuire, James (Denise), Timothy (Mary), Kelly (John), Terence (Caroline), and Kim (Donald) Hart; grandchildren: Jeremy, Frankie, Ashley, Kristin, Timothy, Madeline, Kari, Chloe, James, Kylie, Thorin and Troy; great-grandchildren: Chace, Trinity, Timothy III, Aria, James, Saoirse, Mila, Caden, Gianna and countless others who were fortunate enough to feel the warmth of his kindness. Each of them carries a piece of the legacy he built - a legacy defined by hard work, integrity, and boundless love. He was a pillar of strength for each of them, offering wisdom and support as they navigated life's challenges. His unwavering love for his children, their spouses, and his growing family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren was evident in everything he did. A man of few words but great actions, his influence will live on in his family and the countless lives he touched throughout his life. James will be remembered as a beacon of strength, compassion, and humility. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit and the lessons he imparted will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, James. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. A private funeral service was held on Monday, February 10, 2025.

James Collins

April 5, 1927 - February 4, 2025