With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Cecil Collins, who departed this life on January 2, 2025, at the age of 69. A cherished son, brother, father, and friend, Cecil was a guiding light to all who knew him. He was born to James and Ethel Collins and leaves behind an enduring legacy of love and kindness.
Cecil had an infectious spirit that could light up any room. He found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life, from shouting “Bingo!” with delight to gathering with family for cherished moments filled with laughter. His deep-rooted faith kept him grounded, and he spent countless hours at the Portsmouth Apostolic Church, where he offered his time and heart to those in need.
Family meant everything to Cecil. He leaves behind two brothers: Jim (Rosemary) Collins of Marysville, Ohio and Arnold Collins of Logan, West Virginia, and a sister, Debby (Noah) May of Sommerset, Kentucky, all of whom will forever feel the void his passing has created. He was also the proud father of five children: Patricia (John) Osborne of Sciotoville, Anna (Ralph) Collins of Portsmouth, Gloria (Charlie) Collins of Columbus, Cecil (Brittany) Collins of Portsmouth, and Cristal Anderson of Portsmouth, all who will carry his legacy in their hearts. Cecil’s twelve grandchildren: Christopher Collins, Ashley Roe, Alexas Garrett, Charles Jason Roe, Betty Osborne, London Collins, Hannah Collins, Diamond Collins, Mysha Collins, Gita Collins, Daniel Collins, Cecilia Collins, and many great-grandchildren will hold onto precious memories of their grandpa, who never hesitated to shower them with love and affection.
Cecil is now reunited with his parents, James and Ethel Collins, four brothers: William Collins, Sr., Robert Collins, Granger Collins, and Josh Collins, and his dear sister Pearl Collins, all who welcomed him with open arms.
Those who knew Cecil will remember him as a selfless and compassionate soul, always ready to lend a helping hand. He was truly one of a kind, and he will be deeply missed by everyone whose lives he touched.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Cecil’s life and the indelible mark he left on our hearts. A memorial service will be held at the Portsmouth Apostolic Church on Wednesday, January 8th, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Let us come together to honor him, share stories, and find comfort in our shared memories during this time of reflection.
In our sorrow, we remember the warmth he brought to our lives and the love he unconditionally gave. Until we meet again, dear Cecil, may you rest in peace.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made directly to FC Daehler Mortuary, 915 Ninth Street, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662, (740) 353-4146 or online at www.fcdaehlermortuary.com, you may also leave a special memory of Cecil or condolences for his family.
