Retired Sgt. First Class John A. Collins, Sr.

On Friday, December 5th, 2025, God called home one of his faithful servants, John Collins Sr., at Riverside Hospital, Newport News, VA. John was born to John Collins and Leathia Walker in Georgetown County, South Carolina on

March 3, 1935.

John was educated in the Portsmouth Public School System. He attended IC Norcom High School, where he was an exceptional Track and Field star and a key member of the Basketball Team.

He was formally married to Delores Ward and from this union they were blessed with 5 sons.

In 1954, John enlisted in the United States Army. During his military career, he served in Korea, Germany, was twice deployed to Vietnam and was awarded the Bronze Star, The Army Commendation Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal. After serving more than 22 years as a cook, kitchen supervisor, and dining facility manager, he retired as Sergeant First Class in 1977.

John retired a second time, after working many years as the Cafeteria / Production Manager for Christopher Newport University.

Known as “Pop” or “Buster", he was always eager to lend a helping hand to everyone that crossed his path. Pop, when asked for guidance, gave it to you straight and meant what he said. He loved to cook and catered  numerous events for family, friends and others. Whenever you came by the house you could expect a good meal, which included 3 meats on Sunday!!

John was also a member of New Beech Grove Baptist Church .

John was predeceased by his parents, sisters: Mathia Manning and Naomi Jones,  sons: Kenneth and Gregory Collins. He was also predeceased by Louida Taylor - a special lifelong friend.

John will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He leaves to cherish his memories sons: Michael (Arlene), John (Rematha) and Ronald (Karen),  grandchildren: Kevin, Angela, Michael, Brianna, Tonya, Kenny and Keith Collins, bonus grandchildren: Brian, Sharice and Aronte, a host of great grandchildren, bonus son: Anthony Simpson, special nieces: Penny Marie Martin and Felicia Coles, longtime friends: George (Pete) Buskey, Gosha Henry, Samuel English and Mike Williams and lots of nieces, nephews, cousins and neighborhood friends.

It is the desire of the Collins family that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers. 

The family of Retired SFC. John A. Collins, Sr. has entrusted his final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

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