With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Edwin Stanley Collins Jr., who was born onJuly 25, 1930, and passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025, in Statesboro at the age of 94. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sheryl J. Collins, and his partner later in life, Maggie Shipes. He is survived by his children, Kerry Kimble, Arvilla Norris, Chris Beachum, Mark Collins, and Eddie Collins, as well as his beloved grandchildren, Ana Beachum and Brittany Seidel. He is also survived by the beautiful family of Maggie Shipes, who brought him tremendous joy and support in his later years.
Edwin was a gifted mechanical engineer who was deeply passionate about his work. He was part of the team that helped create the patent for the microwave and contributed to the historic achievement of the first man on the moon. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he found joy in his workshop, where he could fix just about anything, and in his garden, where he nurtured life with the same care he showed to those around him. Warm-hearted, caring, and determined, Edwin believed that age was just a number if you were innovative enough. In his later years, he continued to prove that mindset, always finding ways to adapt, learn, and create. He cherished the pine trees that surrounded his home outside of Savannah—though he had a well-known love-hate relationship with the endless pine cones they dropped. Edwin’s life was a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering passion for living.
After suffering immeasurable loss when his wife passed away, at 82 he proved that life could still hold new beginnings. He embraced the modern world, went online, and found love again, refusing to let grief define his remaining years. At 90, he fulfilled another dream—finding the perfect home, a place where he could continue to thrive. Known for his sharp thinking and boundless determination, Edwin never let age limit his spirit.
He proudly served his country as a United States Marine from 1949 to 1951, carrying that same strength and tenacity throughout his life. Whether through his quick wit, his refusal to slow down, or his deep love for his family, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was a man who defied expectations, inspiring those around him to embrace life at every stage.
A private gathering will be held to honor Edwin’s life, as his family and loved ones come together to celebrate the incredible man he was. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness in his memory—whether fixing something for a friend, embracing a new adventure, or simply appreciating the beauty of the world around you, just as Edwin always did.
Deal Funeral Directors of Statesboro is in charge of the arrangements.
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