Vincent I. “Pete” Collins, Sr.

A Journey Through Life

Vincent (Pete) Collins Sr., age 74, was born on January 26, 1952, in Crisfield, Maryland, to the late Olga C. Collins and Arland Whittington. Vincent (Pete) peacefully departed this life on July 25, 2026, on what would have been his and Susie’s 39th wedding anniversary, following a brief illness at TidalHealth Hospital in Salisbury, Maryland.

Affectionately known as “Pete” or “Petey” by everyone who knew and loved him, Vincent (Pete) was raised in Crisfield, Maryland, where he attended public schools and graduated with the Class of 1970 from Crisfield High School. Vincent (Pete) answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army following graduation. Vincent (Pete) faithfully served from 1973 to 1977, earning an Honorable Discharge with the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4).

After completing his military service, Vincent (Pete) returned to Crisfield and began working at Mrs. Paul’s Kitchen, where he remained until the plant closed. Vincent (Pete) later relocated to Salisbury, Maryland, where he worked briefly at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore before accepting a position at Salisbury University. Vincent (Pete) faithfully served there as a Custodial Supervisor for over 20 years before retiring.

Vincent (Pete) continued his career with the Wicomico County Board of Education as a Building Services Manager, where he dedicated another 18 years of service before retiring once again. Vincent (Pete), even in retirement, missed being around the students and staff, so he returned to work part-time with the Wicomico County Board of Education until his passing.

Vincent (Pete) accepted Christ at an early age and began his spiritual journey at Shiloh United Methodist Church in Crisfield, Maryland, where he sang with the Guiding Light Choir. Vincent (Pete) later united with New Life Christian Church and Ministry in Cambridge, Maryland, under the leadership of Bishop Weldon M. Johnson. Vincent (Pete) faithfully served as a member of the Board of Trustees and the Mighty Men of New Life. Vincent (Pete) loved the Lord with all his heart and never hesitated to share his faith with others. Vincent (Pete) was often seen praying, praising, and worshiping during service, and his love for God was evident to everyone around him. Vincent (Pete) treasured the friendships and brotherhood he found within his church family.

In 1987, Vincent (Pete) married the love of his life, Susie, his soulmate and best friend. Vincent (Pete) and Susie shared 39 beautiful years of marriage, demonstrating a love that inspired everyone who knew them. Vincent (Pete) and Susie were truly inseparable—if you saw one, you almost always saw the other. Vincent (Pete) would lovingly tell Susie, “I love you forever, and forever is a long time,” whenever they parted.

Their wedding song, “Always” by Atlantic Starr, remained their favorite throughout their marriage, and Vincent (Pete) and Susie often sang it together. Vincent (Pete) and Susie were admired not only for their enduring love but also for their impeccable fashion sense, as family and friends looked forward to their coordinated Sunday outfits and photos. Vincent (Pete) found his greatest joy in his family. Vincent (Pete) loved creating lasting memories and was rarely without his phone, capturing special moments and treasured photographs of everyone he loved.

Vincent (Pete) leaves to cherish his precious memory his devoted wife of 39 years, Susie Collins of Salisbury, Maryland; two daughters, Joverne (Tom) and Raejon (Jovan), both of Salisbury, Maryland; two sons, Virgil Jr. (Shakiera) of Baltimore, Maryland, and Vincent Jr. (Meisha) of Salisbury, Maryland.

Vincent (Pete) also leaves nine beloved grandchildren: Mikey (Keana), Andrew, Samaya, Jaierre, Jyiah, Tahiry, JaNyra, Jamari, and Azaya; one cherished great-grandson, JoCeir; his beloved goddaughter, Sade’ Sterling; and three God-grandchildren.

Vincent (Pete) is also survived by four sisters, Joan Sterling, Sandra Douglas, both of Crisfield, Maryland, Bertha Hickmond of Salisbury, Maryland, Wendy Douglas of Atlanta, Georgia; five special sisters, two brothers, Lawrence Jones (Althea) of Salisbury, Maryland, and Glenn Warren (Tracey) of Atlanta, Georgia; his mother-in-law, Lottie Jackson; seven sisters-in-law; three aunts-in-law; two special cousins, Vernel Cottman and Famina Barnes; special friends, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Vincent (Pete) was preceded in death by five brothers, Gary Collins, James Collins, James Ward, William Thomas, and Carl Thomas.

Vincent (Pete) will be remembered for his unwavering faith, tireless work ethic, infectious smile, generous heart, and unconditional love for his family. Vincent (Pete)’s life was a testament to service, sacrifice, and devotion. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, faith, and family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Sorrowfully Submitted,

The Family

A funeral service will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, August 8, 2026, at The Wicomico High School Auditorium, 201 Long Avenue, Salisbury, with a viewing one-hour prior (please use the gymnasium/auditorium side entrance). A Viewing and Visitation will be held 6:00 PM-8:00 PM Friday, August 7, 2026, at Shiloh United Methodist Church, 109 N 4th Street, Crisfield, MD.

Interment will be held 1:00 PM Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery, Hurlock, MD.