Melvin W. Collins, 73, of Watertown, New York, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, at Samaritan Medical Center.

He was born December 8, 1952, in Rome, New York, the son of Melvin and Leona (Powell) Collins. He attended Watertown schools and, following his schooling, held various jobs throughout the local area.

He married Joy L. Gilbert of Watertown on September 1, 2000, in Massena, New York. The couple made their home in Watertown.

Melvin enjoyed fishing and hunting, and he especially loved his cats, Lucy, Smoky, Princess, and Double Trouble. Most of all, he cherished spending time with his family.

Among his survivors are his beloved wife, Joy; a daughter and son-in-law, Nikiya and Joshua Koutrakos of Watertown; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Ernest Pantaleo Collins of New York and Melvin W. Collins Jr. and Deidre Collins of Georgia; three grandsons, one granddaughter, and several great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his sisters and brother-in-law, Tanya Tibbles of Watertown and Cathy and Al Beiler of California; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bryan Gilbert and Shelene Wright of Canton, New York; and his sister-in-law, Misty Gilbert of Waterbury, Connecticut.

He was predeceased by his parents; a daughter, Victorine Collins Stone; a grandson, Damien Smith; and several brothers and sisters.

In keeping with Melvin’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. He will be cremated, and the family will hold a celebration of his life at their convenience.

Arrangements are with Hart & Bruce Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at www.hartandbrucefh.com.