Thomas Collins

Thomas Collins was born in Boyle, Mississippi on October 25, 1943. He departed this life on September 8, 2025, at 3:14 a.m. in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, Thomas graduated from Vashon High School and St. Louis University. After graduation from Vashon High School, he entered the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He was employed with the United States Post Office and the United States Postal Data System. Tom enjoyed golf, boxing, and football. He was extremely proud of his kids and a great babysitter, but ONLY for his grandchildren. He was an avid runner, loved biking, and his favorite food was everything. Tom was the family comedian, remembering every bad thing you've done and throwing it in your face. He was the king of regurgitating useless knowledge. Those who knew Thomas will remember him for his hearty laugh and wisecracking jokes, even if it's at your expense. He loved golf so much, he advocated for his sons to be the next Tiger Woods, which didn't work out in the long run. He had an abundance of knowledge--from his own personal standpoint--of history and trivia. He taught his children and grandchildren how to learn the Great Lakes by using the acronym HOMES (Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior); and he competed with family members in countless rounds of Jeopardy. As a father, one of his greatest joys was knowing that all of his children obtained a bachelor's degree (or higher) from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As a grandparent, he was the number one babysitter--because you could always count on him to remain in one spot for the duration of his childcare duties. Thomas leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Loretta Elaine Smith Collins, and his children: Lorne Thomas Kelly-Collins (Erin), Lillian Teddie Collins-Renelus (John), Latrice Catherine Smith Collins, Landon Jim Pern Smith Collins (Morgan). He will be forever loved and remembered by his grandchildren: Elaina, Ella, Easton, Christian, Genevieve, and Quinn. He is also survived by: his Aunt, Dorethea Darris; Brothers-in-Law: John Brummer, Benton Smith, Edmund Smith, and Daryl Smith; Sisters-in-Law: Paula Collins, Barbara Reed, Deborah Taylor, Cynithia Knighten, and Lori Wilkins. Thomas was preceded in death by his mother, Catherine Collins; father-and mother-in-law, Pern and Lillie Mae Smith; brothers, Alexander Collins and Damon Collins; and sisters, Louise Brummer and Mildred Williams.

Thomas Collins

October 25, 1943 - September 8, 2025