Jeremiah J. Collins

Jeremiah J. Collins, age 70, passed away on Sunday, April 24, 2022 at Saint Elizabeth's Medical Center in Brighton, Massachusetts, with his loving family by his side.  Born in Norwood, Massachusetts on October 19, 1951, he was the son of the late Robert E. and Martha (Nicholson) Collins.  He was raised in Walpole, Massachusetts, where he graduated from Walpole High School with the Class of 1970.  Following his graduation, Jerry enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War.  He served aboard the aircraft carrier, USS John F. Kennedy, and spent some time stationed at the Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp.  Upon his honorable discharge, Jerry returned to his hometown of Walpole and took a position with Newport Creamery at the Walpole Mall.

He married the love of his life Kathleen M. (Denny) on September 18, 1976, in the Blessed Sacrament Church, Walpole, Massachusetts. Together they made their home in Walpole and welcomed two children, Rebecca and Jeremiah, Jr. into the world. Using the GI Bill, Jerry attended Northeastern University nights and weekends while working at Remy Storage in Walpole. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree, an achievement that was celebrated with his wife and children.

Jerry's career brought him to the Foxboro Company, Carolina Freight, ABF Freight, and APA Transport.  Most recently, he took a position with Estes Express Lines, where he was assigned to the newly opened Seekonk location, overseeing the implementation of the new structure as the terminal manager.  Jerry remained with Estes until his retirement in 2009.

Jerry worked incredibly hard to provide a wonderful life for his family.  However, when he wasn't at work, he could be found in his basement, building his "mantown" back before it was popular. He enjoyed collecting trucks from all the companies he worked for that would pass through the terminal, in addition to Navy memorabilia, which he proudly displayed throughout his home for everyone to see. As an avid Boston sports fan, Jerry loved relaxing in his mantown, watching the game with an ice-cold Budweiser.

Beloved husband of Kathleen M. Collins of Walpole.

Loving father of Rebecca Lynn Collins of Walpole and Jeremiah J. Collins Jr., and his wife Sarah, of Jeffersonville, VT.

Cherished grandfather of Jeremiah J. Collins III, Emmett Robert Collins and Brynn Catherine Collins.

Brother of Mary Jane “Rusty” Kneeland, and her husband Kenneth, of Walpole and Robert E. Collins Jr. of Mansfield.

At the request of Jerry’s family all services will be private.

Memorial donations can be made to Adult and Teen Challenge 1311 Main Street Brockton, MA, 02301, tcnewengland.org.