James A. “Jay” Collins Jr., 68, of Newport, died Monday, January 21, 2013 at the Grand Islander Center in Middletown.

Born in Newport on December 24, 1944, he was the son of the late James A. and Elizabeth F. (Wetherell) Collins.

Jay was a graduate of St. Augustin Grammar School and Rogers High School. He was All-State in track at Rogers and held the record in the shot put for many years.

He served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era, serving onboard the USS Saratoga and the USS Enterprise. While stationed in London he was assigned to serve on the NATO Color Guard in France.

After his service he was employed by McKesson Pharmaceutical Company as a sales representative. He also pursued a career in professional photography.

Jay is survived by his two sisters, Elizabeth A. Nelson of Middletown and Brenda M. Finn of Newport, several nieces, nephews and cousins.

At the request of the family Jay’s funeral services and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers donation’s in Jay’s name may be made in his memory to the St. Augustin’s Church Building Fund, 2 Eastnor Road, Newport, RI 02840.