James E. "Rip" Collins, 94, passed away on September 26, 2024, at Vitas Hospice, Melbourne, FL.  He was the husband of Nancy J. Collins.  They shared 73 years of marriage together.  Jim and his family were early space coast settlers.

Born in Chatham, New York, he was the son of John C. and Margaret Collins.  Jim graduated from Chatham High school and was honorably discharged from the United States Navy; whereupon Jim and Nancy moved their family to Eau Gallie in 1957 to participate in the creation of the space program.  The majority of Jim's career was spent with Boeing/GE/Martin Marietta and centered around the space program.  Jim ultimately retired from the Department of Corrections, State of Florida, as an electrical vocational instructor.

Jim was a member and several times past commander of the American Legion Pot 163, as well as the Eau Gallie VFW.  He was also a FHSAA Umpire, a member of the Ocean Fire Co., No. 1, in Chatham, NY, and a past member of the Eau Gallie Volunteer Fire Department.  He will be remembered for his many contributions to the Eau Gallie/Melbourne community.

He is survived by wife, Nancy J. Collins; 5 children: Cathi J. Collins, Susan Bradfield (Michael), Michael Collins (Geri), Linda D. Collins (Fred) and William Patrick Collins (Tammy); 12 grandchildren: Clint Robie (Kristen), Carissa Stranz (Brandon), Sean Collins (Linn), Cory Collins (Brittany), Devin Collins (Julia), Ryan Collins, Dylon Collins, Brandon Collins (Krista), Sarah Edwards, Stephanie Frederick (Bill), Jennifer Barth (Ryan) and Matthew Edwards; 11 great grandchildren: Cali Stranz, McKenna Stranz, Dylan Robie (Sky),  Tyler Robie, Banyan Collins, Koa Collins, Lexi Collins, Eleanor Frederick, Harrison Frederick, Willow Barth and RaeLynn Barth; 1 great-great grandchild: Jaxon Reese Robie (Dylan/Sky Robie).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider donating to the American Legion Post 163 in the name of James E. Collins by using this link ( https://gofund.me/174e1252 ).