Edwin Bruce Collins

1934 - 2024

EDWIN BRUCE COLLINS

September 22, 1934 – June 10, 2024

Edwin "Ed" Collins, 89, was born in Pomona, CA, on September 22, 1934, and passed peacefully at home in Taft, CA, on June 10, 2024. Born to John and Dorothea Collins, Ed grew up in Pomona, graduating from Pomona High School in 1953 and later attending Pomona Junior College. Though Ed began his career in banking, he joined the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in July 1960 and served with dedication until his retirement in March 1984, after more than 23 years on patrol.

Mr. Ed came to Taft in 1977, a year after meeting his wife-to-be, Brenda McMains. Ed and Brenda loved BBQing, camping in their trailer, and going to the beach. While their later years would be filled with Kevin Harvick and NASCAR, during the early part of their marriage, they would often steal away to Alysso Park for a picnic and a bit of quiet from their house full of teenagers. Having been married for nearly 48 years, Ed was a loving spouse, a dutiful son, and a caring father.

Ed was preceded in death by his first wife, Lavenna Williams Collins, and stepson, Larry McMains. He is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda Collins; his son, Gregory Bruce Collins; his stepson, Mark McMains, and his wife, JoJo Anderson; and grandchildren: Kristina, Mark, Brenden, and Cade.

Services for Ed Collins will be held on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the First Baptist Church of Taft, located at 220 North Street, Taft, CA 93268. A luncheon will follow at OT Cook House & Saloon, 205 N. 10th Street, Taft, CA 93268. The family has designated the NEEDS Center of Taft, your church, or your local community for memorial contributions.

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