James Lee Collins, 66, of Sulphur, Louisiana passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2026. He was born to his late parents, Fermon and Selma Collins on October 8, 1959 in Gary, Indiana. He was a Master Merchant Marine Tugboat Captain for Hards Marine. James was a Master Woodworker and Knotworker. Loving human being and my beautiful husband. He loved America, the ocean, and the freedom he felt in the Wheelhouse.
He is survived by his loving wife, Maryellen Collins; children, James Collins Jr. (Tammy) of Sour Lake, Texas, Ryan Ledford (Dani) of Sulphur, James Ledford of Sulphur, Louisiana, Tessa Buckner of Jasper, Texas, Alex Bucker of Kirbyville, Texas, Matthew Buckner of Overton, Texas, Jerid Fruge (Samantha) of Ragley, Louisiana, Jeremy Johnson of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Chae’ Hodge (Russell) of Westlake, Louisiana; along with his grandchildren, Collin, Lanik, Isaac, Ava, Reece, Evie, Logan, Scarlett Fruge, Rowan, Charlie, Scarlett Buckner, Presley, Aden, Warner, and Travis.
A Celebration of James' life will be held at Hixson-Sulphur Memorial in Sulphur, Louisiana on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2:00 pm, with Hixson Celebrant Jody Tyler. Visitation will be at the funeral home beginning at 1:00 pm until the time of the service.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonsulphurmemorial.com.
