Joseph Lewis Collins

Joseph Lewis Collins passed on Sunday, June 28, 2026 in Arlington, Texas, at the age of 87. Born Sunday, February 19, 1939 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Joseph was the son of Edward Collins and Pauline Collins, and was a resident of Arlington, Texas.

Raised in Pennsylvania’s Hill District, Joseph graduated from Schenley High School in 1957. He later served six years in the United States Marine Corps, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant—years that spoke to a steady sense of duty and the kind of backbone that didn’t require an announcement.

Joseph married his wife, Jacqueline Elizabeth Hogan, and together they welcomed six children. He spent 25 years with American Airlines as a jet mechanic before moving into the role of flight instructor, where his careful hand, sharp know-how, and calm patience helped others learn to do things the right way—because with Joseph, “good enough” was rarely the goal when “done correctly” was on the table.

In his spare time, Joseph took pride in tending his lawn and working on cars—hands-on work that suited him just fine. He also loved watching old movies and listening to old songs, enjoying the familiar comforts that never go out of style. He had an eye for antiques, too—the kind of appreciation that could spot a good find, a good story, or at the very least something worth talking about for the next twenty minutes. And if there was a holiday gathering, Joseph especially treasured being there—where the room felt fuller, warmer, and, with him in it, noticeably more entertaining.

Joseph loved studying and imparting the Word of God, a devotion he carried into prison ministry with sincerity—showing up with faith, encouragement, and a steady presence. Still, what many remembered instantly was how easily he made people laugh. He never met a stranger, and few people left his company without a smile, because Joseph had a gift for turning everyday moments into something lighter and brighter—often without even seeming to try.

Joseph was also an accomplished artist; his work was displayed at the George W. Bush Museum in February 2020, a recognition that honored both his talent and the quiet dedication behind it.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Shirley; his brothers, Robert, James, and Jacob; his niece, Musette Collins; and his nephew, Tony Collins.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Jolynda, Jasymane, Jonathan, Joshua, Judah, and Jacob; his sisters, Audrey Collins, Mary Fitzpatrick, and Sandy Bugg; and his grandsons, Boaz Collins, Uriah Collins, Kai'Lee Collins, Jaazaniah Collins, and Deandre Thomas III. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.