Claude Charles Collins

Claude Collins, aged 85, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026. He was born on August 30, 1940, in Brookhaven, Mississippi to Joseph and Inez Collins. His formative years were spent learning all aspects of their family farm (Chotard) in rural Mississippi. As a young adult, he enjoyed participating in rodeo calf roping events. He also had a mechanical inclination-that served as the catalyst for Claude joining the US Army to pursue his interest in aviation mechanics. Claude served in the Vietnam War from November 1963 to 1964 as a helicopter gunner and was honorably discharged in 1967.

Claude Collins was a renowned innkeeper and hotelier of the Holiday Inn near Jacksonville International Airport. He was actively involved in community organizations like The Florida Hotel/Motel Association and the Northside Business Bureau in Jacksonville. Such was his impact on the hospitality industry, he was named as Duval County Citizen of the Year by former Sheriff Nat Glover and the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association has a scholarship, in his name, to deserving students who are a member of the FRLA. When not working, Claude had a passion for offshore fishing, spending time outdoors, tending to his yard, and spent cherished time with family, friends and his buddy, Benji.

Mr. Collins was preceded in death by his parents and brother (Joseph). He is survived by the love of his life, Sandy to whom he has been married for 64 wonderful years. Together, they raised two children, Julie Ostensen (Scott) and Joseph Collins (Barbie); eight grandchildren, Lauren Stansbury, Michael Rountree II, Christian Ostensen, Savannah Collins, Joseph Collins, James Collins, Scarlett Collins, and Sandy Collins; five great grandchildren, Andrew Stansbury, Emma Stansbury, Lily Rountree, Michael Rountree III (Trip), and Liam Ostensen; and nephews, Phillip and Loren McKay.

A memorial service will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church, 202 N 4th St., Fernandina Beach, FL, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026. A reception will immediately follow. The family plans a private inurnment, with military honors, at a later date.

Claude will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and love for his family and community. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Claude Collins Hospitality Scholarship at frla.org.