Obituary of James W. Collins

James W. “Jim” Collins, 91, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy rooted in faith, deep love, laughter, and an unwavering devotion to his family.

Born on June 29, 1935, in Mystic, Iowa, Jim was the son of the late Edward Collins and Hazel (Astroth) Collins. He graduated from Mystic High School in 1954.

Jim loved his family above all things, and his life was defined by a beautiful, lifelong romance. After meeting as high school sweethearts, Jim and Mary Ann (Young) were married on Nov. 12, 1955. They shared 67 wonderful years of marriage before Mary Ann went home to heaven in 2022. Jim spent every day missing her deeply, and his family takes immense comfort in knowing that their separation is over.

After their marriage, Jim and Mary Ann moved to Rock Island, Illinois, where Jim began what would become a distinguished 43-year career in the newspaper business as an apprentice printer at the Rock Island Argus. After serving as composing room foreman and as assistant production manager of the Argus, he and his family moved to Quincy, IL in 1973. There he joined the Quincy Herald-Whig as the production manager. In 1977, he was promoted to business manager of the Herald-Whig. In 1980, Jim was promoted to general manager and vice president of the New Jersey Herald in Newton, NJ, after acquisition of the New Jersey Herald by Quincy Newspapers, Inc. He and his family moved to Fredon, NJ. In 1993, he was appointed vice president of newspaper operations for QNI. In 1997, he retired from QNI.

A dedicated member of his community, Jim believed in giving back to his profession and his community. He was active in numerous trade, civic and community activities. He served as president of the New Jersey Press Association. He was a Eucharistic Minister at St. Joseph Church in Newton, NJ. He generously volunteered his time and leadership to organizations that made a difference, including the United Way, the Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Samaritan Inn, March of Dimes, and SCARC.

After retirement, Jim and Mary Ann continued to make their home in Newton while enjoying many years as snowbirds in Lake Worth, Florida. In 2016, they made Lake Worth their permanent home.

Jim loved the simple pleasures of life. He never turned down a good meal, especially a perfectly cooked steak alongside a good glass of scotch. He also loved classic country music and never missed an opportunity to tell a good story or share a laugh. In recent years, his weekly dominoes game with friends brought him great joy.

Jim will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering integrity, generous spirit, and deep love for his family. Whether leading in his profession, serving his church and community, or simply enjoying a meal with those he loved, he made people feel welcomed, respected, and valued. His life was a life well lived, and his memory will remain a blessing to all who knew him.

He is survived by his son, Michael Collins and his wife Valerie Toscano; and his daughter, Anne Collins-McAvinn and her husband, Jim McAvinn, of Oxford, NJ. Nothing brought Jim greater pride than his family. He was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren, Rhiannon, Jenna, Kelly, Jack, and Matthew; and the great-grandfather of four great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Greyson, Carter, and Lily. He is also survived by his loving nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ann, his parents, his siblings, and his sister-in-law.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at St. Rose of Lima Church, 85 Academy Street, Oxford, NJ.

A Graveside service will be held at Highland Cemetery in Mystic, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the American Heart Association (PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692) or made online at https://www.heart.org/en/honor-memorial