In Memory of John Collins

I can tell you lots of facts about John Collins. How he was born in Corpus Christi, Texas on April 13, 1943. That he then moved with his family to New York. That when he graduated from high school, he joined the Air Force. That after he completed his time in the service, he used his GI Bill to go to college, eventually earning an undergraduate degree in Psychology and earning credits for a Masters Degree in Psychology as well.

I can tell you that I met John when he was a therapist in a children's clinic in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. That we shared a love of the outdoors, travel, music, camping, and animals. And each other. It was love at first sight for us. And we were married three years later in a small ceremony in a judge's chamber on August 28, 1981. We spent many happy years in Pennsylvania and eventually moved to Arizona where we spent many more happy years until his death in May 2010.

But that doesn't give you a feel for John. That doesn't tell you anything about his heart and his soul. And I don't know if I can convey that in just words upon this page. But I'll try.

When John passed away and I told people what had happened, just about every single person mentioned how they would miss his smile and his laugh. I guess that describes the essence of John. He was a happy man. He was content with his life. He knew his life was good and he appreciated it every day. And he wanted to share that feeling with others.

John was especially serious about helping others. Sometimes he did it in very subtle ways, ways that didn't make a lot of fanfare but the recipient of his generosity felt the love. He visited friends in hospitals, he gave generously to his Church and to causes he felt passionate about – animal shelters, the homeless, veterans. He was a good and caring nurse. His patients loved him. And he was smart. Very very smart.

He was a kind and loving husband. A best friend. A soul mate in every sense.

John and I were not blessed with children so I want Quantum Hugs to be our legacy to the world. Something to live on and make the world better for us having been here. John always had faith in anything I tried to do. His belief in me helped me to accomplish things I never thought I could.

That belief is my driving force now. That and our love.

Joy Collins
President, CEO and Founder