James "Jimmy" Edward Collins

May 12, 1941 – May 8, 2025

James “Jimmy” Collins, a beloved husband, father, athlete, entrepreneur, and friend, passed away peacefully with his wife of 60 years by his side. Born in New York City and raised in New Jersey, Jimmy followed his passion for basketball at the University of South Carolina, where he proudly played for the Gamecocks and began a lifelong love for the Palmetto State.

An accomplished athlete and natural leader, Jimmy turned his drive and charisma into a successful career in radio. Starting in sales, he quickly rose through the ranks to become General Manager of seven local stations. After retiring from the radio industry, he founded a thriving advertising agency, where his creative spirit and business savvy continued to shine.

Throughout his life, Jimmy was a mentor to many—guiding young professionals in the media world, offering advice to fellow entrepreneurs or simply sharing life lessons with friends and neighbors. His wisdom, generosity, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Jimmy and Ginny traveled the world, chasing and sharing new experiences. They lived several years in St. Croix USVI, adding to a life rich with adventure. He always felt complete at home on Lake Murray, where he could be found tanning by the pool, cruising the lake by boat, or working on his latest household project. A true “MacGyver,” Jimmy enjoyed taking on projects around the house for Ginny.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Jamey Elizabeth Collins; his parents, Edward and Margaret Collins; his sister, Betsy (Richard) Rabush; his in-laws, Henry and Edith Cone; and his sister-in-law, Donna Cone Welch.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia “Ginny” Collins; his nephew, Scott Rabush (Lizzie); his sister-in-law, Sharilyn Setterlund (Chuck); his nephew-in-law, Allen Welch (Jennifer); his niece-in-law Lauren Davis; and his cousins-in-law, Linda Eckstrom (Jim) and Harold Cone.

The family is grateful to the following for serving as pallbearers: Matthew Cregger, Johnathan Eckstrom, Taylor Gregory, Matt Imel, RJ Stack and Ryan Stack.

Honorary Pallbearers: All prior University of South Carolina Men's basketball staff and players.

In honor of Jimmy, the family asks that friends wear garnet and black, the University of South Carolina Gamecock colors. Formal dress is not required.

Visitation will be at Dunbar Funeral Home, 7600 Woodrow Street, Irmo, SC 29063 on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 from 5:30 - 7:30.

Services for Jimmy Collins will be on May 15, 2025 at 3:00 at Chapin Christian Community Church,415 Lexington Avenue, Chapin SC 29036 with graveside services immediately following.

Jimmy will be remembered for his warm heart, sharp mind and endless love to bring out the best in anyone he met. In Jimmy’s honor, may we embrace the journey, never stop learning, and enjoy a little fun in the sun.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jamey Elizabeth Collins Cheerleaders Fund at the University of South Carolina (Send to Morris Cregger, 11 Gray Heron Court, West Columbia. SC 29169) or the charity of your choice.