John Carl "Jack" Collins

John Carl (Jack) Collins, beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend passed away peacefully on September 18th, 2026 at the age of 92 in Bluffton, SC, while holding his wife's hand.

Jack was born in St. Louis on January 20, 1934 and was the son of Lucille Derby and John Collins. He had one younger sister, Mary and a wide network of aunts, uncles and cousins. Jack attended Bishop McBride High School in St. Louis and was an exceptional student athlete during his four years there.

Following high school, Jack went to Quincy College on both an athletic and academic scholarship. He lettered in three varsity sports—baseball, football, and basketball—and graduated second in his class, while also working part time. While he had many achievements in college, his most successful accomplishment was in winning the hand of his future wife, Nancy Carmichael. They married prior to his senior year and began their life together, which lasted over 71 years.

Jack began his career with IBM, and enjoyed a long, successful career in the computer industry. He went on to excel in executive sales positions with several companies using his warmth, quick wit and professional selling skills.

Those who knew Jack will remember his great personality. He loved to laugh, was always quick to tell a funny story and his motto in life was to make someone feel better than they had before seeing him. Golf was a lifelong passion, and he played well into his eighties. He never missed his gym workouts, and in his down time was an avid reader of mysteries.

Jack's greatest joy was in his family where he was always there to lend an ear, pass along sound advice, and counsel on the difficult decisions that life can present. He was proud of the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren and was their biggest cheerleader. He truly was the pillar of the family. His greatest love was for his wife, Nancy, with whom he shared the very best of times and never ran out of things to discuss, usually around the kitchen table.

Jack spent many happy years at his ocean homes in the Outer Banks of North Carolina before moving to Bluffton, South Carolina 20 years ago. He and Nancy made many dear friends through their neighborhood in Sun City and on the golf course.

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Carmichael Collins, his sister Mary Anderson; his children, Elizabeth (Steve), Mark (Susan), Amy (Michael) and John (Melissa); his grandchildren, Katie (Mike), Jack (Nell), Caroline (Remy), William, Graham, Andrew, Matthew, and Nick; and his great grandchildren, Landon, Collins, Alizee, and Ella.

“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Dr.Seuss