James Arthur Collins

Beloved husband and father James Collins, age 89, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, October 3, 2018. Jim was at home when he passed on to his next life. Mom, Ed and Sister In-law Ernestina were at his side. Jim was born in Dickinson, Texas October 22, 1928. As a young man he joined the US Air Force and reached the rank of Senior Master Sargent in his 28-year career. After retiring at age 50, he spent 13 years teaching at Austin Community College in the HVAC Technical Department. Those who knew him can attest to his love of fishing with his buddies and sons at Lago Vista, catching fish when nobody else could.

Jim picked up volleyball in his early years and played until his old knees wouldn’t let him. His highlights included playing with his son Ed and in the USAF championships and a number of years playing in the National Senior Olympic tournaments. Many of you will remember him refereeing volleyball matches at Austin Rec Center and Northwest Recreation Center. As much as he loved fishing and volleyball, he loved his family so much more. His beautiful wife of almost 60 years, Tina, sons Ed, James and George and daughter Linda were the love of his life. He would embarrass us all when he would reach for his wallet and pull out family pictures to show anyone who he met. He was equally proud of his 9 grandchildren so his wallet became quite big carrying all those photos.

Jim is survived by his wife Tina Collins, eldest son Ed Collins and wife Amy, son James Collins, Jr., son George Collins and wife Emily, and daughter Linda Long and husband Ricky. As well as 9 grandchildren Ben, Rachel, Anna, Michael, Jay, Marissa, Ellie, Leah, Riley and his wife Lauren.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Charles Wesley Collins and Theodosia Georgia Collins and grandson George R. Collins, Jr. We are grateful for all the great care provided by Ernestina Cabral (Tina’s angelic sister), and Jim’s caregiver Candy Bennett who made it possible for Tina to care for Jim at home as he needed additional assistance for the past few years.

Daddy will be deeply missed by all he has left behind. We have lost a good man and look forward to the day we see him again.

Services will be held Monday, October 8, 2018 at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home with a visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, a funeral service at 11:00 AM and a graveside to follow.