William Francis Collins

He was the beloved son of William J. Collins and Mary Ricketts Collins, and the cherished brother of John Collins.

William shared a loving marriage of 62 years with his devoted wife, Margaret Longobardi Collins. Together they built a strong and enduring family. He was a proud and dedicated father to William Augusto, William F. Collins Jr., Joseph A. Collins, and Christopher M. Collins.

He was a loving grandfather to Allison Augusto, Eric Augusto, Marlena Augusto, Zachary Collins, Madison Collins, Liam Collins, Caleb Collins, Hayden Collins, Christopher Scotto and Elise Scotto and a great-grandfather to Alex and Aiden Augusto. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews who will fondly remember him.

William proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955. Following his military service, he built a long and respected career, working for 15 years at New York University and later dedicating 25 years to the City of New York at Bronx Community College.

Beyond his professional life, William had a deep passion for homing pigeons. An avid enthusiast in breeding and racing, he served as President of the Mid Valley Racing Pigeon Club for many years, where he formed lasting friendships and contributed greatly to the community he loved.

William will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, and the joy he found in his lifelong passions. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held at David T. Ferguson Funeral Home, 20 North Street, Washingtonville, NY 10992, US, on March 29, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St Mary's Church, 42 Goshen Ave, Washingtonville, NY 10992, US, on Monday March 30, 2026, 10:00 am, followed by a Committal Service at Orange County Veterans Cemetery, 111 Craigville Rd, Goshen, NY 10924, US, on March 30, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675, US, or at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.