James Collins

THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF James Reid Collins
"Jesus said unto her: I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?" John 11:23-26
With profound sorrow and reverent hearts, we announce the passing of a beloved soul, James Read Collins, who departed this earthly life on January 4, 2026. He was born into this world on the fifth day of June in 1954, in Pineville, Louisiana, to the late James and Bertha Collins. A cherished native of Torras, Louisiana, he ultimately made his home in Lettsworth, Louisiana, where he cultivated a life abundantly filled with love, devotion, and unwavering faith.
Known affectionately as "Reid" by family and friends alike, he was a distinguished graduate of Batchelor High School, proudly bearing the mantle of the Class of 1972. His journey through life was marketed by grace, kindness, and an enduring commitment to those he held dear. In the tender years of his youth, Reid opened his heart Christ and was baptized under the spiritual guidance of the late Reverend Joseph Holmes, Jr. He faithfully carried out his membership at Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church, serving with dedication under the esteemed leadership of Pastor Vernon Simon. His faith remained the cornerstone of his existence, illuminating his path and inspiring all who knew him. On the twentieth day of October in 1990, Reid was united in holy matrimony to the late Dora Wells, a union blessed by love and sanctified by devotion. Together, they shared a bond transcended the earthly realm and spoke to the eternal nature of true companionship.
Reid's legacy lives on through those who were blessed to know and love him. He leaves to cherish his precious memories: three devoted sisters - Willie Mae Jolla, Barbara Hart and Mary Dixon all of Lettsworth, Louisiana; three brothers - Steven Collins, John Collins (and wife Linda) of Lettsworth, Louisiana, and Joseph Collins (and wife Debbie) of Brookshire, Texas; his beloved Godchild, Kimberly Hart; and a vast constellation of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends whose lives were immeasurably enriched by his presence.
Reid was preceded in death by his parents, James and Bertha Collins, his brothers, Michael Collins, Donald Ray Collins, and Bernard Collins, and his sister Diana Taylor. He now joins them in eternal rest, reunited in the glory of our Heavenly Father's embrace.
Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find solace in knowing that Reid's spirit endures in the countless lives he touched, in the love he so generously gave, and in the faith he so steadfastly upheld. May his memory be eternal, and may his soul rest in everlasting peace.