
John (Chip) Collins, born March 18, 1960, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, went home to be with our Lord on August 18, 2026.
He grew up in Baton Rouge and was a member of Winbourne Avenue Baptist Church, where his faith in God deepened and flourished. When he was 12 years old, he began studying Tae Kwon Do under Master Ki Yoon. The skills, discipline, and lifelong friendships he gained through martial arts remained an integral part of his life.
John graduated from the LSU College of Engineering. He began his career with the Louisiana Department of Transportation, serving in various engineering positions. He later moved to Grand Island, Nebraska, where he served as City Engineer/ Public Works Director. He concluded his distinguished career with the City of Amarillo, serving as Utilities Director
He is survived by his wife, Sarah Collins; his parents, John Collins and Joni Sue Collins; his sister, Sharon Lee; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, his great grandmother affectionately known as Mama Ward and brother-in-law James (J. Hope) Lee, whom he dearly loved.
John’s life was marked by steadfast faith, dedicated service, and deep love for his family and friends. Whether through his work or the relationships he cherished, he touched the lives of many. While he will be greatly missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now in the presence of his Savior and reunited with loved ones who have gone before him.