John William Collins Jr.

John William Collins Jr., known affectionately as John or Buddy to his friends and family, passed away on March 25, 2025, at the age of 75, in Rising Sun, Maryland, after a valiant battle with AL Amyloidosis and Multiple Myeloma. Born on February 7, 1950, in Bridgeton, New Jersey, John was a man of great character, whose loving, wise, and handy nature left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
John's early years were spent in Bridgeton, where he graduated from Bridgeton High School. Upon graduation he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1968 – 1978. Instilling the values of discipline and loyalty that he carried throughout his life, he earned the rank of Staff Sargeant. After boot camp at Parris Island, SC he was deployed to Japan and Thailand in support of the Vietnam War. Upon returning to the States and being stationed in Quantico, VA, he proudly was assigned to Marine Helicopter Squadron One that provided transportation to sitting United States President Jimmy Carter, Vice President Walter Mondale and cabinet members.
After his honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps, his thirst for knowledge and commitment to personal growth led him to further his education at Rutgers University and Temple University. John dedicated himself to a career in industrial refrigeration. He was not only an expert in his field but also shared his knowledge generously as an instructor at Salem Community College and Delaware Technical & Community College. During his career he worked for Campbell Soup Company, Frigoscandia, FMC, Hanover Foods, and General Refrigeration. This led him to work in food production facilities throughout the United States, Central America and Europe.
Upon his retirement in 2016, he settled to a farm in Rising Sun, MD where he enjoyed caring for horses, goats, and dogs.
John's interests and hobbies were a reflection of his multifaceted personality. An expert mechanic and a true automotive enthusiast, he could often be found tinkering in his garage, a place where he felt at peace among engines and tools. His love for speed and competition was evident in his passion for NASCAR, a sport he followed with fervor. John also possessed a creative side; he was an adept woodworker, crafting beautiful pieces that served as a testament to his patience and attention to detail. Music was another of John's great loves, and he found joy in playing the guitar in The Split Ends in his early years and noodling alongside his favorite songs at home in his latter years. Even in quieter moments, John indulged in stamp collecting, a hobby that offered him a window to the world and its many stories.
He is preceded in death by his wife Dale Collins, sister Stella Conley, brother-in-law Elmer More, Robert L. Cambardella, grandson Leland Collins, and grandson Cameron Collins.
John's legacy is carried on by his beloved family. He is survived by his wife, Deborah Collins, his children, Jaime Arment (Brandon), John E. Collins (Laura), and Deborah's children Jamie Campbell (Matt), Jessica Cambardella, Tony Cambardella (Leah), and brother-in-law Harold More (Sue). His grandchildren, Lacey Arment, Isabella Collins, James Campbell, Hunter Campbell, Elizabeth Campbell, Robert Cambardella, Mariah Cambardella, Mark Cambardella, and TJ Cambardella, who will miss their Pop-Pop's wisdom and gentle guidance. Additionally, he is survived by his sisters Mary Thomas, Frances Hamby, and Rusty Greer, cousin May Morris, and many family and friends that he held dear.
John's life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and the roar of an engine, "Got fuel, got fire, gotta go". His presence was a source of comfort and inspiration, and his ability to fix not just machines but also the occasional broken heart was a rare gift. As a family man, John was the cornerstone of his household, providing unwavering support and a sense of security to his loved ones.
In his passing, John leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and the importance of pursuing one's passions. He was a man who knew the value of hard work and the joy of life's simple pleasures. His impact on his family and community will be felt for generations to come.
As we bid farewell to John, we celebrate a life lived with honor, kindness, and a spark of fun that ignited the hearts of those around him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and left the world a better place.
Semper Fi
A viewing will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025 from 4 to 6 PM in the Faries Funeral Chapel, located at 29 S. Main Street in Smyrna. Funeral services will begin at 6 PM. Burial will be privately held.