Born January 24, 1956 in Peoria to William E. and Joan Evelyn (Hoxie) Thousand, he married Pamela Lynn Nyberg on August 3, 1974 in Creve Coeur. She died November 28, 2018 in Creve Coeur. He also was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Franklin Thousand.
Surviving are four children, Brian (Shannon) Thousand of Peoria, Chad Thousand of Creve Coeur, Mandi (Joe) Graham of New Berlin and Shayna Thousand of Peoria; nine grandchildren, Devin Thousand, Jaden Thousand, Niklaus Thousand, Jordan (Olivia) Thousand, Aaliyah (Brenden Ferguson) Graham, Jasmine Thousand, Kyle Bethel, Nathan LaFeber and Adam Thousand; one great-grandson, Maverick; one brother, William (Launa) Thousand of North Pekin; one sister, Roxann Dejarnett of Pekin and numerous nieces and nephews.
Collins enjoyed a career as an autobody tech and last worked for Germantown Autobody in 2019.
Away from work, Collins found enjoyment in the world of racing. He loved NASCAR, and his favorite driver was #6 Mark Martin. He also followed dirt track racing in Peoria, and he took pleasure in collecting diecast cars and tools.
He was a former member of the Jaycees in Creve Coeur.
His graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Pastor John Plunkett will officiate. A celebration of life gathering will then be held from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, October 24, 2026 at Larry's Driftwood in Creve Coeur. Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Creve Coeur.
Memorial contributions may be made to Creve Coeur Fire Department, 203 Wagner Drive, Creve Coeur, IL 61610.
To express condolences online, visit www.Preston-Hanley.com
