Richard Wilson Collins

THE OBITUARY Richard Wilson Collins, affectionately known as “Bill,” beloved son of the late Bertha Wyatt Collins, John Floyd and George Collins, passed away peacefully at the age of ninety-four (94) on January 25, 2025, in Nassawadox, Virginia. Richard was born on June 2, 1930 in Accomack County. He lived a life marked by hard work, faith, and an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Richard attended school locally and spent his working years in various trades, including the mills, oyster houses, farm work, and eventually retiring from Crockett’s Seafood. His dedication to his work was matched only by his love for the outdoors and animals. In his younger days, he was especially fond of his Billy goats—Billy, Bessie Jo, and Bobby Jo—and often delighted in calling their names and watching them come running to him. Gardening was another passion of his, and when not tending to his vegetables or caring for his goats, Richard enjoyed leisurely drives along the back roads at an unhurried pace. Unhurried was an understatement when it came to him going about 10 to 15 mph, just slowly cruising like it was legal to drive that slow. Later in life, Richard married Virginia, with whom he built a life centered on love and faith. He was a devoted member of New Allen Church. Richard gave his life to Christ and remained steadfast in his faith throughout his years. Even as his health declined, he maintained a positive spirit and was known for never complaining. When asked how he was doing, he would humbly reply, “I’m alright.” In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by: his daughter, Caffie Curtis; his stepson, Leroy Holmes; one grandson; one great-grandson; four brothers; two sisters; one sister-in-law; one brother-in-law and one son-in-law. Richard will be remembered for his gentle spirit, unwavering optimism, and deep connection to the simple joys of life. His legacy of kindness and faithfulness will continue to inspire those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know him. To honor his memory, he leaves behind: his beloved wife, Virginia Elizabeth Collins, to whom he was married for over thirty-five (35) years; mother-in-law, Maeozell B. Kelley of Cheriton, VA; six sons, Charles (Faye) Williams of Virginia Beach, VA, Richard (Vera) Williams of Nassawadox, VA, John (Crystella) Williams, Sr. of Melfa, VA, Angelo (Annette) Holmes of Exmore, VA, David Holmes of Birdsnest, VA and Larry Holmes of Bland, VA; five daughters, Dorothy Smith of Painter, VA, Laura “Ann” Chandler of Brentwood, NY, Alberta (Roy) Savage of Norfolk, VA, Joyce (Sammie) Williams of Painter, VA and Cynthia (Harry) Holmes of Pungoteague, VA; Rose and Alexander Williams, whom he raised as his own daughter and son; forty-one grandchildren; seventy-eight great- grandchildren; twelve great great-grandchildren; eight sisters-in-law, Louise and Mae Floyd of DE, Ruby Smith of VA, Helen Blake of Machipongo, VA, Violet Fitchett of Birdsnest, VA, Patricia (James) Jones of Cheriton, VA, Silvia (Jason) Custis-Henry of Allentown, PA and Patricia E. Fitchett of Fairview, VA; two brothers-in-law, Thomas Morris, Jr. of VA and Hillary Graves of Newport News, VA; special family and friends, Mandy Giddens, Elsie Thomas, Corine Sturgis, Maggie Ann Harmon, Inez Nock; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Lovingly Submitted ~ The Family

Richard Wilson Collins

June 2, 1930 - January 25, 2025