Obituary of James "Jocko" Collins

James R. "Jocko" Collins of Syracuse, NY passed away on February 5, 2025 at the age of 76.

  Born on April 1, 1948 to Bill and Kate Collins in the Tipperary Hill neighborhood of Syracuse, NY, he was one of 15 children. James graduated from St. Patrick's School and went on to work for 38 years for the City of Syracuse. He retired as the Commissioner of the Department of Publics Works in 2006. In retirement Jocko and Mary Lou spent their winters in The Villages, FL where he enjoyed golfing and spending time with their many friends. They enjoyed summers at Brennan Beach and Clayton, NY where he enjoyed fishing and golfing and in recent years came back to his roots in Tipp Hill. He was a devoted companion, loving father, caring brother and loyal friend. He was most proud of his 8 grandchildren, Caitlin (Mike) Gilbert, Casey, Keven and Finn Collins, Kaeleigh and Connor Collins, Cameron and Collin Lopez, 1 great-granddaughter Maleigha Gilbert  

  He was predeceased by his siblings, John Collins, Carol Solan, Patricia Russell and his son Christopher Collins. 

  James is survived by the love of his life of 25 years, Mary Lou Simcuski; his Children, Kevin (Sheila) Collins, Brian (Susan Stearns) Collins and Kerri (Gary) Lopez and their mother Nancy Collins, all of Syracuse. He is also survived by seven sisters, Mary Worden, Katherine Collins, Eileen (Bob) Sganga, Margaret (Chuck) Comins, Nancy (Tom) Gaughan, Sister Anna Mae Collins and Elizabeth Collins. Four Brothers, William (Pat), Michael (Nancy), Thomas (Molly) and Richard (Rita) Collins and many nieces and nephews who fondly referred to him as Uncle Jimmy.

  Services will be held on Friday, February 14 at 10 am at St. Patrick's Church. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Dewitt. Calling hours will be Thursday from 4-7 pm at the church, corner of Lowell Avenue and Schuyler Street.