WILMINGTON — Julius J. Collins, born in May 1950, passed away in February 2026, leaving behind a legacy of strength, devotion, and unwavering love for his family.
A proud United States Army veteran who served during the Vietnam War, Julius was a Purple Heart recipient — a testament to his courage and sacrifice in service to his country. The discipline and resilience he carried from his time in the Army shaped the man he became: steady, protective, and deeply committed to those he loved.
Julius worked for many years as a licensed electrician and later retired from the University of North Carolina Wilmington as a fire alarm technician.
Above all else, Julius was a devoted husband, father, grandfather “Pop,” great-grandfather, and friend. He shared a loving marriage of 55 yrs with his wife, Paulette Britt Collins, and took immense pride in his children, Hope Lynn Benton and her spouse Andy Benton and Richard Collins and his spouse Amy Collins. He was a proud grandfather to Austin Andrew Benton, Payton Marie Collins, and Ethan Julius Collins, and a cherished great-grandfather to Briella JL Benton. He also joyfully anticipated the arrival of his future great-grandson, Brodie Windsor Benton.
Julius had a simple but powerful way of loving his family — faithfully sending morning texts to check in, offer encouragement, or simply say he loved them. He was an avid walker and could often be found outside enjoying conversations with neighbors, building quiet friendships along his route. He was fiercely protective of his family, always standing as their steady guardian and greatest supporter.
He is survived by his siblings Eugene Collins Jr., Beatrice Eubanks, TK O’Conner, Butch Freeman, Margaret Simmons, Susan Collins, Tammy Leggett, and their spouses, along with extended family and friends who will deeply miss his presence. Julius will be remembered for his strength, his loyalty, his protective heart, and the everyday ways he showed kindness and love. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the many lives he touched.
A Gathering of Family and Friends took place on Saturday February 28, 2026
