James R. Collins

MILLERS MILLS, NY - Mr. James R. Collins, age 91, a longtime Millers Mills resident, passed away peacefully on Monday evening, June 30th, 2025, at the Wynn Hospital, always surrounded with the loving presence of his entire family.

He was born on February 19th, 1934, in Troy, New York, a son of the late William H. and Jessie (Start) Collins. He began his working career with Swatling and Peaty Oil company that later became Mohawk Valley Oil and held the position as Oil Manager. He and his wife owned and operated Collins Greenhouse and Florist in Millers Mills for over 35 years.

On July 23, 1955, he was joined in marriage with Darlene S. (Brown) Collins at Millers Mills Community Church with the Rev. James Benes, officiating; a loving union of 63 years. Jim and Darlene made their home and raised their children in Millers Mills, New York. Family and friends were foremost in their lives. Together they enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping in the Adirondacks and at Lewey Lake. Jim mourned the passing of his beloved wife, Darlene, on November 5th, 2018.

Survivors include his loving family; his children, James Collins, Christy Helmer, Russell Collins and his partner Theresa Murdock, David Collins and his wife Donna, Diane Swanteson and her husband John, and Lou Ann Adams and her husband Jeffrey; twelve grandchildren; twelve great - grandchildren; his siblings, Doris Miller and Charles Collins, several in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife, Darlene, and by his son – in - law, Michael Helmer in August of 2008.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, July 13th, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Millers Mills Community Church, 647 Millers Mills Road, West Winfield, New York, with Rev. Jessica Merrill officiating. Interment will immediately follow the services at the Millers Mills Cemetery.

In respecting his wishes, there will be no formal calling hours. Kindly consider memorial offerings in Mr. Collins' name to the Millers Mills Community Church, 647 Millers Mills Road, West Winfield, NY 13491. Envelopes will be available at the services for this purpose.

The Collins family would like to offer their deepest gratitude to Dr. A. Kannan and his wife Gina; who have consistently treated Jim and his family with care, kindness, and friendship; and to the Special Care Unit at Wynn Hospital.

All funeral arrangements have been established with The Applegate, Day, & Enea Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road in Ilion, New York. (315) 894-8000.

This obituary will be available on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors.