Ralph "Hank" Collins Jr.

Ralph “Hank” Collins passed from death into eternal life on June 15, 2026. He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Collins Sr.; his mother, Mary Collins Harrison; and his stepfather, Dan Harrison.

Hank is survived by his beloved wife, Vanessa Collins, whom he loved and adored. Through every health challenge he faced, Vanessa remained faithfully by his side, providing unwavering love, strength, encouragement, and care. Their marriage was built on devotion, friendship, and deep affection, and her support was one of the greatest blessings of his life.

He is also survived by his daughter, Shay Collins, and son, Brian Collins, whom he loved dearly. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Layne Harmon, Bryce Collins, and Amelie Collins, and a cherished great-grandfather to Mariah Harmon. To them, he was lovingly known as “Granddad.”

Hank is also survived by his sisters, Pam Mitchell and Cindy Skinner and her husband, David; his brother, Deano Harrison and his wife, Stacey; his stepdaughters, Brandy Pinilla and her husband, Mike, and Bridgette Adams and her husband, John; and six step-grandchildren—J.D., Tenleigh, Chip, Charlotte, Clara, and Miles—who affectionately knew him as “Bear Paw.”

He is further survived by his loving nieces and nephews, Tiffany Elmore, Wayne Mitchell, Mary Ann Hales, Connor Harrison, Drew Harrison, and Dylan Harrison. He treasured the special bond he shared with each of them and took great pride in their lives and accomplishments.

Hank dedicated much of his professional life to Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where he earned the respect and admiration of coworkers through his hard work, integrity, and commitment to serving others. His leadership and passion for helping working families led him to serve as Union President, a role he carried with pride, determination, and honor. He was a trusted advocate, respected leader, and loyal friend to many.

Life was meant to be lived fully, and Hank embraced it with enthusiasm. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. His quick wit, infectious laugh, and endless supply of stories made him the center of countless gatherings. Whether sharing a funny memory, telling a joke, offering advice, or simply enjoying the company of others, he had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcomed and valued.

A devoted Chicago Bears fan, Hank cheered faithfully for his team through every season. He was also an avid drummer and lifelong lover of music. The rhythm and energy he brought to music reflected the passion and spirit he brought to every part of his life.

Above all else, Hank cherished his family and friends. Some of his most treasured memories were the simple moments—watching movies with his children while sharing buttered popcorn, gathering loved ones together, and grilling cheeseburgers for his grandchildren. These ordinary moments became extraordinary because they were spent with the people he loved most.

Hank’s stories, laughter, wisdom, and generous spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, friendship, and living life to the fullest.

If you knew Hank, you probably have a story about him. He would want those stories shared, those laughs remembered, and those memories celebrated.

His family finds comfort in knowing that the man who loved so deeply and lived so boldly is now at peace, and that his memory will remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him.