James Buster Collins

James Buster Collins was born on February 8, 1932, in Texline, Texas, to Angelina Craft and James O. Collins. He passed away on February 26, 2026, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, following complications from aneurysm surgery and other chronic illnesses.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Katharina Wilhelmine Ramet. Mr. Collins is survived by his sons, William J. Collins and Charles E. Collins, as well as the children from his first marriage, Donna Young, Debbie Sparks, and James Richard. He also leaves behind grandchildren William J., Brian M., and Kiera, along with great-grandchildren Kaydence, Iseah, Aubrey, Marley, Wesley, Michael, and his great-granddaughter Kaiya.

A veteran of both the Marines and the Army, Mr. Collins retired as a Master Sergeant after three tours in Vietnam and subsequent service in Berlin, Germany. He was awarded the Bronze Star and other honors for his service. Following his military career, he worked for 17 years as a Senior Contracting Officer at the Veterans Administration Building in Decatur, Georgia, retiring in 1984. He was a past Master of the Berlin Lodge and took great pride in his Masonic involvement, including the moment his grandson Bill Jr. witnessed him receive one of his degrees at the Sweetwater Lodge in Lilburn, Georgia.

Mr. Collins cherished family traditions and found joy in playing chess, dominoes, solitaire, cards, and computer games throughout his life.