Edward J. Collins

Edward J. “Ted” Collins, Major, Providence Police Department Retired, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2022, at the summer home he affectionately named Tranquility. He was surrounded by people who loved him dearly including his beloved wife Pamela (Wallace) Collins.

Born in Providence, RI, Ted was the son of the late Patrick J. and Mary (Dwyer) Collins.

Ted was a lifelong resident and supporter of Providence. He was educated at St. Patrick's School on Smith Hill and his connection to St Patrick's lasted his lifetime. He supported the school through fundraising efforts and the generosity of his time and resources. Ted graduated from La Salle Academy in 1953. He was proud to be recognized by the school as a distinguished La Salle alumnus and inducted into the La Salle Hall of Fame in 2010. Ted went on to receive a degree from Bryant College in 1976.

After graduating from La Salle Ted served 2 years in the US Army with postings at Fort Devens, MA and in Iceland. Foreshadowing his distinguished law enforcement career, three times during his 24 month enlistment Ted was recognized as "Soldier of the Month".

Like his father before him, Ted was employed by the Providence Police Department (PPD). He retired in 1995, after 37 years of service with the rank of Major. Ted did many things well, but he excelled as a Police Officer and public servant. Ted won a legion of awards, accommodations and promotions during his career. His family are particularly proud that Ted was twice (1969 and1978) awarded Medals of Heroism by both the American Red Cross and American Legion. The 4 awards recognized Ted for risking his own life to successfully save others. After graduating from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA., he served a term as President of the FBI National Academy Association. He was the first commander of the PPD's SWAT team.

In addition to Police work, Ted served his community and the people of Providence in many ways. He was a Board member at Amos House and the Genesis School, President of the Smith Hill Business Association and member of the Elmhurst Commission. Standing with the "little guy", speaking the truth to power and challenging injustice were hallmarks of Ted's life and career. In 1991 he was honored as "Man of the Year" by the South East Asian Business Association, with the Association stating "...when we came to this city 10 years ago, many of us felt alone and afraid. One of the first to reach out to us in comfort and friendship was you." In an editorial noting the event the Providence Journal wrote "Every Police Dept. in the United States should have a Captain Collins, who senses so well that the people from Laos, Cambodia. and Vietnam, just like those who came from the hills of Calabria, County Cork or Fayal, are the new embodiment of the American Dream".

Like a true Irishman Ted loved telling stories, he also enjoyed spending time on his boat, fishing and searching for a bargain. While his stories were rarely short, they were always engaging. Ted captured a room when he began to regale. His family and many friends will miss being entertained by him.

Ted will be deeply missed by his wife, daughters, Denise Arrondo, Deborah Calise, Susan Kelly, and Maryellen Maggiacomo, his stepsons, Lombard, Thomas, and Mark Gasbarro, his sister, Kathleen Collins Mullen, 15 grandchildren, his sons-in-law and many nieces and nephews. Ted was predeceased by his sisters, Patricia Collins O’Rourke and Maureen Collins Valkoun.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, August 29th, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Pius V. Church, 240 Eaton St., Providence, RI. The family will receive guests at the Church at 9:30 a.m. The burial will follow at Gates of Heaven Cemetery, East Providence, RI.

Kindly omit flowers. Donations in Ted’s memory to: The Major Edward J. Collins Endowment Fund at St. Patrick Academy, 244 Smith Street, Providence, RI 02908, would be appreciated.