Merritt A. "Mac" Collins

Rensselaer - Merritt A. "Mac" Collins, 93, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at St. Peter's Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Mac was born in Troy, New York, on October 14, 1932, to the late Mildred (Church) and Merritt S. Collins. He was a graduate of Averill Park High School. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for four years, spending most of his service stationed in the western United States.

After returning home, Mac attended barber school and went on to open Mac's Barber Shop in West Sand Lake, where he became a familiar and friendly face in the community.

Mac lived in East Schodack for 36 years with his beloved wife, Janice (Thomas) Collins, and his two stepchildren. In 2005, Mac and Janice built their home in Nassau, where they continued to share many happy years together. The couple recently celebrated over 50 years of marriage and were looking forward to their 51st wedding anniversary.

An avid bowler and hunter, Mac also enjoyed gardening and playing cards-an activity he continued right up until two weeks before his passing. His easygoing nature, sense of humor, and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Mac was predeceased by his son, Gregory Collins; his sister, Shirley Rescott, and her husband, Gene Rescott; and many close friends.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Janice (Thomas) Collins; his son, Thomas (Kelly) Collins; his stepchildren, David (LisaBeth) Adams and Cathy (Ken) Mahar; and his grandchildren, Thomas "TeeJ" (Rob Gutierrez-Collins) Collins-Gutierrez, Sarah (Tara) Collins, Antigony (Ben Ryan) Adams-Ryan, Myranda Adams, Gabriella Adams, Michael (Megan) Adams, Kyle (Becky) Mahar, Shannon (fiancé Doug Avery) Mahar, and Katie Mahar.

Mac was also the proud great-grandfather of Axle Ryan, Athea Ryan, Arianna Ryan, Atlas Ryan, Aries Adams, Tyler Adams, Cooper Adams, Natalie Adams, McKenzie Adams, Claire Mahar, Evan Mahar, and a great-grandson expected by Thanksgiving. He is also survived by his sister, Loraine (Thomas) Mastromarchi, as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Mac's legacy of kindness, hard work, and love for family will live on through all who were blessed to know him.

The family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to the Rensselaer County Community Hospice, especially his nurses, Paul and Adam and most recently the St. Peter's Hospital Emergency Department and ICU, especially the nurses and doctors, for their kindness and care while tending to Mac. As well as the members of the Rensselaer Fire Department for their swift and professional care and transport of Mac. 

A private family gathering was held and a Celebration of Life is being planned for the future, with details to be announced.