Edward “Ed” Shepherd Collinson was called home on Wednesday, November 21, 2018 at the age of 97. He died peacefully at his residence at the Sunrise Assisted Living in Westminster, MD. He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Margaret (née Ryan) Collinson; his daughter, Suzanne Thomas and son, Ryan Collinson; twin grandsons, Ched and Ronnie Thomas; and his brothers, Oliver and Joseph Collinson. He is survived by one son, James and daughter-in-law, Pamela of Westminster; granddaughters, Kelly Causey of Towson, MD and Andrea Collinson of Hampstead, MD; great-grandchildren, Elizabeth and Rill Causey, Aislinn Canavan and Victoria, Karissa and Robert James Hummel; many nieces and, nephews and their children.
Ed grew up in Anne Arundel County and graduated from Annapolis High School before joining the U.S. Coast Guard where he served as a pharmacist mate during World War II. Soon after the military, he was a lineman and PBX installer with the C&P Telephone Company and AT&T for over 40 years. Ed was active in the Eastport United Methodist Church as member and President of the Methodist Men. His membership with South River Ruritans included terms as President, Vice President and Chaplain. He served over 30 years as scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 715 of Woodland Beach where he became known as “Uncle Ed” to many boys. His quiet but persistent devotion to others was felt by many and often recognized with tributes and awards including the Silver Beaver and the Order of the Arrow in scouting.
Ed’s constant focus was on helping others, both man and beast. His slogan may well have been, “Be kind”. Ed’s gentleness was calming and contagious. The Bible, good music and gardening were lifelong interests with Maryland tomatoes and sweet corn being consumed with great attention and joy. He will be missed and so fondly remembered.


Friends and family are invited to celebrate Edward's life on Monday, November 26, 2018 from 5 to 7:30 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037 where a funeral service will be held on Tuesday at 11 am. Interment to follow at Hillcrest Memorial Cemetery, Annapolis. Online condolences may be left by clicking on the link on this page.