James F Collins

James Francis Collins, 99, of Canton, formerly of Norwood, passed away December 1, 2021. Born March 8, 1922 in Waltham to James and Mary (Hart) Collins. He was the beloved husband of the late Virginia (Dole) Collins and predeceased by his daughter Mary Collins and son Brian S. Collins. James had 3 siblings that are deceased. Mary Tyman and husband John of Windsor Locks, CT. Dorothy Snell and husband Edward of Woburn, MA. Alice Donovan and husband Albert of Tewksbury, MA.

James is survived by his loving children; James F. Collins Jr. married to Linda (Peterson) Collins; Maureen Ellen (Collins) Carroll married to Peter G. Carroll; Michael J. Collins married to Joan (McGowan) Collins; Christopher J. Collins married to Nancy (Babin) Collins. As well as many nephews and nieces.

James’ grandchildren are Kelly J. Reeves (Collins) and husband Joseph Reeves of Surry, NH. James R. Collins and wife Jenna (Flattery) of Dedham, MA. Steven M. Collins of Walpole, MA. Brian C. Collins and wife Danielle (Conlin) of Wrentham, MA. Caitlin Maureen Carroll of Pawtucket, RI. Colleen Virginia Carroll Trojbom and husband Jakob Trojbom of Gainsville, FL. Brianne Mary Constance Carroll of Canton, MA. Bridget Johanna Carroll of Canton, MA. Megan Virginia Collins of Whitinsville, MA. Christopher W. Collins and wife Jessica (Franklin) of Baton Rouge, LA.

James grew up in Waltham. He joined the Navy in 1943. After serving in World War II, as a submariner stationed in Pearl Harbor, Jim attended Boston College and received a degree in Physics. He worked for Allis-Chalmers, Sylvania and Raytheon, as well as other companies. Jim married Ginny in 1951, residing in Norwood. He was a devout Catholic, attending services at St. Catherine’s in Norwood. Jim was an avid dancer, a loyal Boston sports fan and loved camping with his friends and family. He traveled abroad well into his 90’s, with Ireland becoming his favorite spot.

Visitation will be held Sunday, December 5, 2021from 2pm to 6pm at Gillooly Funeral Home, 126 Walpole Street, Norwood. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Norwood at 11am on Monday, December 6, 2021 with interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery in Waltham.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in James’ memory to Hart Speech Foundation (85 Boatwright’s Loop, Plymouth, MA 02360) and the Matt Brown Foundation (www.mattbrownfoundation.org).