John Collins, a former U.S. Marine, a Miami-Dade police officer, and the husband of former Miami Lakes Councilmember Mary Collins has died.
Collins died on March 27 at the age of 82.
He joined the Marines following his high school graduation and was honorably discharged.
He then joined the Miami-Dade police department and retired after 30 years on the force.
After he and his wife moved to Miami Lakes, Mary Collins, a former Miami-Dade County Commissioner, won a seat on the new Miami Lakes Town Council in 2001 and won reelection for two consecutive terms.
John Collins was a member of the Miami Lakes Veterans Committee, one of the many committees his wife created to help the town cater to the different needs of town residents of different generations.
“John was an invaluable member of the committee and will always be remembered for his contributions, his laughter and his remarks that placed a smile on everyone’s face,” said Alejandro Sanchez, chair of the Veterans Committee. “Now is the time not only to mourn his loss but remember the good times we all shared and be a strong support for Mary.”
Alvin Entin said Collins was a policeman with talent, integrity and a symbol of all that was good in law enforcement.
“He was a spirited supporter of Conservative causes before it was either convenient or popular to be a conservative,” said Entin. “In the forefront with his wonderful wife, they spearheaded the Ronald Reagan Revolution in Miami-Dade and never lost sight that Conservatism, as espoused by Reagan and Goldwater, was grounded in intense patriotism and love for all people and their right for a chance to succeed.”
Said Esther Amador: “He was an amazing human being.”
Miami-Dade County Commissioner Esteban Bovo Jr., said: “I am saddened to hear the news of John Collins passing. John gave much of his time to serving his community and looking out for others from which we will always be thankful. My most sincere condolences to Mary Collins and the Collins family. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.”
A memorial service for John Collins was held on March 30 at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church in Miami Lakes.