Roynel Charles Collins

It is with deep love and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Roynel Charles Collins, who left us peacefully on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the age of 70. Roynel was born on June 22, 1954, in Los Angeles, California to his beloved parents, Rudolph and Charleystine Collins. He was the second of three brothers, raised in South Central Los Angeles before moving to Compton in 1958.

Roynel’s childhood was marked by his love for sports, music, and his community. He attended Ralph J. Bunche, McKinley Elementary, Enterprise Jr. High, and Compton High School, where his passion for music blossomed. He took great pride in playing the trumpet, a gift that he honed throughout his life, later joining the Marching Band, Orchestra, and Jazz Band at Compton High School. His love for music and his dedication led him to the Rose Parade, an experience he cherished deeply.

Roynel’s musical journey continued at San Diego State University, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Music Arts. During his college years, he had the honor of performing with renowned musicians and forming lifelong friendships with fellow musicians who shared his passion. His joy and talent for music were undeniable, and he treasured every opportunity to play, especially alongside his dear friends in various music gigs.

A defining highlight of Roynel’s music career was working with legends like Stevie Wonder and Solomon Burke, an accomplishment that filled him with pride and gratitude. But beyond the accolades, Roynel’s love for music remained rooted in the joy it brought him and the relationships it helped him build.

In the late 1980s, Roynel met and fell in love with Bobbie while working at the post office. Together, they made their home in Corpus Christi, Texas, where they spent 25 years of marriage, creating a life full of love, laughter, and shared dreams. Though Bobbie passed away, Roynel continued to cherish the memories of their time together, keeping her spirit alive in his heart until the very end.

Roynel was a humble, loving, and charismatic man who touched the lives of all who knew him. He was known for his sense of humor, his generosity, and his ability to make others feel seen and appreciated. His outgoing nature and kind spirit made him a cherished friend, brother, and uncle.

Roynel is survived by his brother, Sylvester Collins; sister-in-law, Blanca Collins; nephew, Sylvester Collins; and niece, Courtney Collins, nephew Rudy Collins, niece Michele Collins. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Though he has left this world, Roynel’s legacy of love, joy, and music will continue to echo in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to call him family and friend. His spirit will live on in every note of music, every laugh, and every kind act he ever gave.

Rest in peace, Roynel. You will always be remembered with love.