Rudolph M. Collins

Rudolph “Rudy” Michael Collins, the son of the late Rudolph and Rose Collins, was born on February 16, 1952, in Buffalo, NY. He peacefully passed away on October 17, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at home.

Rudy graduated from East High School in Buffalo, NY, in 1970. He was awarded a full football scholarship to attend Livingstone College, a historically Black college in Salisbury, NC. After briefly attending Erie County Community College in Buffalo, NY, Rudy began his professional career as a Respiratory Technician at the Regional Emergency Hospital.

Rudy was best known for his long career as a bus driver, which began in the mid-1970s with Greyhound Bus Lines. In 1978, during one of his routes, a serious accident caused the bus to flip on its side. Despite the gravity of the situation, Rudy’s calm demeanor and quick thinking saved the lives of all the passengers on board. After this event, Rudy sought a role closer to home and joined NFTA, Buffalo’s public transportation system. In the early 2000s, Rudy and his family relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he resumed bus driving for the city until his retirement.

A passionate sports fan, Rudy had a deep love for NFL football and NBA basketball, with the Buffalo Bills holding a special place in his heart. In the 1980s, Rudy co-owned a local sports association, and whenever Michael Jordan played the Cleveland Cavaliers, Rudy could be found cheering courtside at the coliseum.

Rudy also loved to travel, especially to visit family and friends, and was a regular attendee at jazz festivals, one of his favorite pastimes. A skilled chess player, he enjoyed playing while smooth jazz melodies played in the background.

A man who stood for social justice, Rudy was a fervent advocate for diplomacy and progress. A committed supporter of the Democratic Party, he often engaged family and friends in political discussions, sharing his vision for a progressive, people-centered society led by competent and just leaders. He was unwavering in his beliefs.

Above all, Rudy was a family man, deeply devoted to his wife, children, and grandchildren. He honored his parents and poured wisdom and love into those around him. His niece Aneesah fondly remembers him as a nurturer. Even after relocating to Charlotte, Rudy maintained a strong, loving bond with his twin sister, Roslyn.

Rudy leaves behind a wealth of cherished memories with his beloved wife and confidante of 40 years, Yvonne Collins; his twin sister, Roslyn Lucinda Collins; his lifelong friend of over 50 years, Ronald “Uncle Ronnie” Morrow; his sons Taj (Tomorrow) and Calvin (Nicole); his daughters Christie, Basia Rose Mayah (Alexis), and Mjaan Dorothea; nieces Ebony Princess and Aneesah; great-nieces Amari Rose and Amiya; and great-nephew Aaidyn. He is also survived by his twelve grandchildren—J’had, Tajuddin (Martinique), Mansa, Sabir, Josiah, Edward Weah, Gabe, Val, Asa, Azra, Cherokee, and Miles—and five great-grandchildren—Emanuel, Samiah, Sincere, Mahari, and Kameelyah—along with a host of cousins and friends.

Rudy was a man of respect, love, and honor, leaving behind a legacy that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.