Maple Collins

Maple, beloved son, husband, father, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully in Plantation, Florida at the age of 89. Maple was born in Cedar Key, Florida to his beloved mother Arvie (Cannon) Collins and father Julius C. Collins both who preceded him in death.

Maple grew up in his cherished Cedar Key and graduated from Cedar Key High School where he was a proud Shark playing football, basketball, and track. After high school, Maple joined the United States Air Force and served as the Aircrew Radio Operator/Navigator. While stationed in Columbus, Ohio he met and later married Mary Francis Dunn. They lived in Florida where Maple had a 37 year career with the Federal Aviation Administration (Jacksonville and Miami) including teaching at the FAA Academy at the University of Oklahoma while also earning an Associate Degree.

Maple was also an avid private pilot and flight instructor. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, being with family, and reading his favorite poet, Robert Frost.

Maple left behind two daughters Elizabeth (son- in- law Francisco) Alvaro, Laurie (son-in-law Larry) Rounds, and three beloved grandchildren (Francisco, Lauren, and Alejandro Alvaro. Maple also leaves behind beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins from his Cedar Key family as well as many long term friends and colleagues.

A viewing will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025 from 5-7 pm at Weems and Sons Funeral Home in Chiefland, Florida. Graveside service will take place at the Cedar Key Cemetery on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 10:00 am. Minister Gepher Lopina will officiate. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Weems & Sons Funeral Homes, 715 West Park Avenue Chiefland, Florida 32626.