John W. Collins Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather and devoted veteran of the United States Air Force, passed away on May 12, 2026, at the age of 82. He leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Born on October 21, 1943, at Fort Sam Houston, Texas to Janie Yondal (Sollock) Collins and John W. Collins Sr., John grew up with the values of a strong Christian faith, hard work, integrity, and devotion to country that would define the course of his life. From an early age, he was drawn to aviation and to a higher calling of service.
After his graduation from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, he answered that calling through a distinguished career in the United States Air Force, where he rose to the rank of Captain. Serving as an Aircraft Maintenance Officer during the Vietnam Conflict, he was entrusted with the demanding responsibility of maintaining some of the most advanced aircraft in the American arsenal, including stealth aircraft stationed at Kadena and the surrounding installations in Okinawa, Japan. His technical expertise, leadership, and unwavering professionalism ensured that the pilots in the cockpit could rely on their aircraft when it mattered most. He carried the pride of his uniform with him the rest of his life.
Next John’s life path took him into the world of banking where he had a long meaningful career as a Commercial Loan Officer. His work made a positive impact on the community by supporting the growth of local businesses, while always guiding his clients with high ethical standards.
In 1981, John married the love of his life, Carol (Bitter) Simpson. Together they built a home filled with warmth, laughter and steadfast devotion to one another. John embraced the role of stepfather to Kyle Simpson with the same dedication he brought to every chapter of his life, treating Kyle as his own son and standing as a steady, guiding presence through the years.
Among John’s greatest joys were his grandchildren, Cole and Claire Simpson, who brought light and laughter into his life and to whom he was endlessly proud to be a grandfather. He delighted in their company and treasured every moment spent in their presence. He was just getting to know his two new step grandchildren, Gavyn and Luca Davis, and was looking forward to doubling his joys of grand-parenting with them.
He is survived by his loving wife of forty-four years, Carol Ann Collins; his stepson, Kyle Simpson; Kyle’s wife, Candace Simpson; his grandchildren, Cole and Claire Simpson, and Gavyn and Luca Davis; his brother, Marcus Collins and wife, Kathy; sister-in-law, Neesie Beal and husband, Jim; brother-in-law, Dave Bitter and wife, Mary, niece, Cobi Hinton Collins; nephews, Brett Collins, Austin Bitter, and Bryce Bitter; and a wide circle of family and friends whose lives he touched. He was preceded in death by his parents, Yondal and John W. Collins Sr.
Those who knew John will remember him as a man of quiet strength, sharp mind, and generous spirit. Whether on the flight line in Okinawa or at the head of the family table, he led with humility and served with honor. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to call him a friend.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Porter Loring Mortuary North, San Antonio, TX 78232.
A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 11:30 a.m., at Colonial Hills United Methodist Church, 5247 Vance Jackson Rd., San Antonio, TX 78230.
For those that cannot attend the service, here is the link to view online: www.chums-sa.com
Interment to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.
Following the burial there will be a Celebration of Life at Adante Community Center/Club House at 2731 Cembalo Blvd. from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
*When entering complex, follow Cembalo Blvd. to stop sign. (Do not turn toward high rise building facing NW Military Dr.) At stop sign you will see the Club House with flag poles out front. Parking is available by Club House and across the street in larger lot.*
Donations in John’s honor may be made to the “Gary Sinise Foundation” or a charity of your choice.
