Mr. Michael Thomas Collins

Michael “Mike” Thomas Collins December 13, 1949 – May 31, 2025 Michael “Mike” Thomas Collins, a lifelong resident of Mobile County, passed away on May 31, 2025. He was 75 years old. Born and raised in Chickasaw, Alabama, Mike grew up in a close-knit community with his older brother, two younger sisters, and a devoted mother who raised them with love and strength. He carried those values with him throughout his life. Mike is preceded in death by his mother, Alice Adele Terry; his brother, Ernest Worth Collins III (Ann); and his sister, Terry Anne Jones (Aubie, deceased). He is survived by his devoted partner in life, Teresa Collins; his children, Michael Cleveland (Tara) and Christopher Collins; and his daughter-in-law, Shannon Collins. He was a proud grandfather to Tommy Cleveland, Chloe Cleveland, and Asher Collins. He is also survived by his sister, Jean Davis (Mike); his nieces, Amanda Sellers (Greg) and Tracy Preston (Kendall); his nephew, John Davis; and his great-nieces and nephews: Kennedy Sellers, Shelby Preston, Jordan Preston, Collin Davis, and Connor Davis. Mike served his country in the United States Coast Guard from 1969 to 1973 and was stationed in Palawan, Philippines during the Vietnam Era. Following his service, he spent much of his career as a tugboat and offshore captain, skillfully piloting 200-foot vessels across the Gulf and beyond. He was a longtime member of Christ United Church, where he had worshipped since 1990. Mike often said he loved the Lord, he loved his church, and he knew he was going to heaven. His faith was quiet but steady, and it gave him comfort throughout his life. Mike had a deep love for classic cars—restoring, collecting, and trading them brought him endless joy. He also had a soft spot for animals and shared his life with a variety of beloved pets, including Yorkies, a Weimaraner, a Dalmatian, cats, and horses. But nothing meant more to him than his family. Mike was many things to many people: a son, brother, devoted partner in life, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He was known for his strong spirit, stubbornness, and love for others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Christ United Church 6101 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL 36609 Visitation: 10:00 AM Service: 11:00 AM Funeral arrangements are being handled by Cottage Hill Memorial Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) at their website. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted — Matthew 5:4

Mr. Michael Thomas Collins

December 13, 1949 - May 31, 2025