James Thomas Collins, age 82, of Townsend

May 1, 2025

James “Jim” Thomas Collins

On the evening of April 25, 2025, James “Jim” Thomas Collins ascended from this earthly realm, carried on the mighty wings of an eagle, departing from Silver Springs Assisted Living Facility in Townsend, Montana. His passing, due to complications from COPD, was a peaceful transition, surrounded by the love of his daughter Chellie, her husband Brent, and two of his cherished granddaughters, Eden and Ariel. At 82 years old, Jim’s spirit soared to new heights, leaving behind a legacy of strength, family, and adventure.

Born on October 18, 1942, in Great Falls, Montana, to George W. and Velda Hankins Collins, Jim was the fourth of six children. His childhood unfolded across the rugged landscapes of Townsend and Fort Benton, Montana, where he developed an unquenchable love for the outdoors. An avid outdoorsman, Jim could often be found in the mountains near Townsend and White Sulphur Springs, sharing hunting expeditions with his brothers and, later, his children—his heart forever tied to the wild beauty of Montana’s natural wonders.

At 18, Jim answered the call of duty, enlisting in the United States Navy in November 1960. With determination, he earned his General Educational Development High School Level in January 1962 and completed his Naval Prescribed course of study on June 7, 1963.

After five years of honorable service, he was discharged on March 9, 1966, carrying with him a deep pride for serving his country during a turbulent era.

Returning to Montana with his former wife and the beginnings of his family of five children, Jim embraced the land. He worked his parents’ farm near Geraldine, took on a propane job in West Yellowstone, and later logged the mountains and guided hunters with a warmth that endeared him to all. His life was a journey across Montana, settling in Townsend and White Sulphur Springs, where the mountains became his second home.

Jim’s passions were as vast as the Montana sky—cooking, hunting, trapping and the thrill of gold and gem panning. He reveled in the mountains, weaving tales of chasing “the big ones” with his family. One treasured memory, shared by his daughter Chellie, captures a Thanksgiving hunt. With time ticking toward dinner, Jim led the group to a promising patch of trees, splitting the experienced and younger hunters. Chellie and her cousin Vicky, aged 12 or 13, giggled their way through the woods, unwittingly flushing a massive bull elk into the path of Jim and the seasoned hunters. The successful shot came with a two-hour delay to dinner, a scolding, and a celebration of triumph—a story etched in family lore.

In his later years, Jim found joy in Townsend, often sharing laughs and stories with his brother Gordon at the Mint, where he enjoyed casino games and coffee laced with Kahlua. When he could no longer live independently, Silver Springs Assisted Living became his haven, its staff and residents a surrogate family. He delighted in their company, cherished the bible study group, and left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, George W. and Velda Collins, his brothers George, Gordon, and an infant sibling who passed at 22 days, and his sister Carolyn. He is survived by his sister Norma Pruett (Richard Pruett) of Spokane, Washington, and his five daughters: Chellie Matson (Brent Matson) of Dillon, Montana; Theresa Charon (Brian Charon) of Laurel, Montana; Cathy Favor (Abbie Favor) of Pleasanton, Texas; and Tammie Sixberey (Tony Sixberey) of Pompeys Pillar, Montana. His legacy endures through 17 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Jim’s final resting place will be the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison in Helena, Montana, with interment June 6, 2025. A memorial service is planned on June 7, 2025 at 1:00pm at Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home in Townsend, followed by a small reception at the Mint Cafe/Bar.

With heartfelt gratitude, the family extends a special thank you to the staff and residents of Silver Springs Assisted Living, who embraced Jim as family, and to John Kinzle of Enhabit Hospice Care, whose presence brought comfort in Jim’s final hours. Deep appreciation also goes to Anderson, Stevenson Wilke Funeral Services for their compassionate support during this unexpected time.

As Jim’s spirit rides the wings of an eagle, may we honor his memory with the same courage, love, and wild-hearted joy he carried thorough life.