William "Cody" J. Collins

William J. Cody Collins
October 9, 1943 – October 5, 2025

Cody Collins, a beloved husband, musician, veteran, and friend to so many, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, just shy of his 82nd birthday.

Born and raised in Schenectady, New York, Cody grew up with a strong sense of duty and adventure. He answered his country’s call at a young age, serving six years in the United States Army from 1962 to 1968. During that time, he proudly wore the patch of the 101st Airborne Division and served with the Army Security Agency. A Vietnam combat veteran, Cody carried the experiences of service with resilience, honor, and humility throughout his life.

After the Army, Cody continued to dedicate his talents to national service. He spent 30 years as a civilian employee of the Department of Defense at Fort Meade, Maryland, retiring with distinction. During his career, he accomplished the exceedingly rare feat of earning– twice– the Meritorious Civilian Service Award. His professional life reflected his deep commitment to protecting and serving his country, even beyond his years in uniform, and to mentoring hundreds of colleagues to do the same.

Cody’s curiosity and love for the world took him far and wide. He traveled to over 70 countries and lived in several overseas locations. Of all these adventures, Germany and Hawaii held the fondest places in his heart, where he forged lifelong friendships and collected memories that he cherished always.

In 1977, Cody married, as he called her, “Saint” Joanne, his devoted partner of nearly 48 years. Their marriage was a testament to love, loyalty, and laughter, filled with journeys both far-flung and close to home.

Music was Cody’s heartbeat. A talented bass player, he performed with Big Boys Blues Band and Chill Factor, delighting audiences across the Baltimore area. He also served as the house bass player for open mics at Bippy’s and The Friendly Inn, sharing his love for jazz, blues, big band, country, and classic rock with countless fellow musicians and music lovers.

Above all, Cody will be remembered for his generous spirit, his courage, and his joyful embrace of life. His gruff exterior hid a heart of gold, and he was the best

storyteller in any room he entered. He leaves behind a legacy of service, song, and love that will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Cody is survived by his wife Joanne Collins (née Doty); sister-in-law Tobi Doty; niece Alissa Gropper (née Doty) and nephews Kevin, Brian, and Scott Doty, as well as their spouses, partners, and children; and a large loving extended family.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Chapel at Charlestown Senior Living Community located at 711 Maiden Choice Ln in Catonsville, MD, on Saturday, 20 December, at 10:00 am. The family will receive guests beginning at 9:30. An inurnment will take place on Monday, 22 December, in NJ.

The Chapel will be decorated for Christmas so they request no flowers be sent for the service. If desired, donations may be made in Cody’s memory to the Veterans of Foreign Wars or World Central Kitchen.