Leroy “Lee” Joseph Collins, 89, of Mansfield, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Born in Cleveland, Ohio on January 3, 1936, Lee was the son of the late Clyde and Mae (Kusa) Collins.
A 1954 graduate of Cleveland South High School, Lee later co-owned Clippership, where he proudly dedicated many years of his life. Remarkably, he continued working well into his later years—a true testament to his enduring spirit and work ethic.
Lee’s love for sports was a lifelong passion. He enjoyed countless rounds of golf at Shelby Country Club and was also a proud member of Westbrook Country Club. He spent over five decades serving his community as a referee and umpire for local football, basketball, and slow-pitch softball. Lee also played softball for Moritz Builders and was instrumental in the development of Cyclops Field, where he not only helped build a field but fostered a lasting community.
Lee’s impact on local and national sports was recognized through his induction into both the state of Ohio and National Umpires Hall of Fame. In 1989, he was honored to be among just five umpires selected to officiate the Olympic Trials for the Olympic Games—an achievement he was incredibly proud of. For over 61 years, Lee was a devoted member of St. Mary of the Snows Catholic Church, where his faith and friendships continued to grow throughout his life.
Lee is survived by his wife of 36 years, Judie Collins; four children, Greg Collins, Tim (Karen) Collins, Jeff “Bo” Collins, and Kathy Collins; two stepchildren, Wendi (Jim) Ward and Barry Wills; grandchildren, Matt (Sara Beth) Collins, Katie (Colt) Cunningham, Kara Collins, and Amanda Collins (Jake Stevens); step-grandchildren, Sarah (Markus) Heinevetter, Anna (Jake) Lathers, and Matt Ward; great-grandchildren, Ava, Emily, Mason, Myles, Ella, Lucas, Colton, Eleanor, and Lorelei; and in-laws, Janet (John) Swartz, Cathy Lux and Mike (Donna) Philpott. He is also remembered fondly by several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Adam Collins; sisters, June (Mitch) Blachowski and Nancy (Mike) Cheon; brother, David (Stephanie) Collins; and brothers-in-law, Terry and Larry Philpott.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Lee’s life on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Wappner Funeral Directors-Ontario, 100 South Lexington-Springmill Road from 12:00-2:00 p.m. A memorial service officiated by Deacon Al Kopp will begin at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary of the Snows Catholic Church or the Humane Society of Richland County.
