Bobby J. Collins

Bobby Jerald Collins Sr. of Midland passed away on Monday, August 18, 2014 at the age of 75 years. He was born in Graham, Texas on June 10, 1939 to Jeff and Connie Collins. Bobby was raised along with seven other siblings in Breckenridge, Texas.

He was predeceased by his parents, sister’s Loretta Collins, Joyce Casey and Cathy Collins and his son Bobby Collins Jr.

Bobby is survived by his wife of 52 years, Martha Collins, two daughters, Karen Collins of Austin and Tricia Raabe (Bruce) of Midland along with three grandchildren, Brandon, Paige and Madison Raabe. His brother’s Maurice Collins (Carlynn) of Fort Worth, TX, Jimmy Collins (Brenda) of New Braunfels, TX, Kenneth Collins (Janice) of Dennis, TX, and Jerry Collins (Kathy) of Carrollton, TX and several nieces and nephews.

Bobby attended school in Breckenridge before joining the Army and serving three years in Wyandotte, Michigan. After returning to Texas, he graduated from the Highway Patrol Academy in Austin, Texas and was assigned to work in Midland. A fellow patrolman introduced Bobby to the love of his life, Martha, who at that time worked at the Tip Top Drive Inn. They were married on June 28, 1962 and began their family soon after. In 1965, Bobby made a career change and began working for the City of Midland Fire Department and retired as a Captain after 17 1/2 years of service.

Bobby was a 32nd Degree Mason. He was an avid golf fan and loved the golf channel. Bobby also liked to play dominos and he taught his kids and grandkids to play as well. This was a great way to spend quality time together. Bobby has struggled over the years due to complications with COPD. He has met many sweet and generous people through the Hospice of Midland. The family would like to send out a special thanks to Tammi and Christy for their care, encouragement and dedication. Donations can be made to the Hospice of Midland, PO Box 2621, Midland, Texas 79702.

Visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20, 2014 at Ellis Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2014 at 1:30 p.m. at Crestview Baptist Church with the Reverends Robert and Rusty Frazier. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park and Mausoleum Cemetery.

Pallbearers for the service will be Jerry Collins, Kenneth Collins, Bruce Raabe, Mike Routh, Thomas “Buddy” Wood, Brad White and Honorary Pallbearers Maurice Collins and Jimmy Collins.

Online condolences may be offered at www.ellisfuneralhome.com