Moses R. Collins

Moses R. Collins passed away on May 24, 2025, after a short illness at Christ Advocate Hospital in Oak Lawn, IL, surrounded by family and friends.

Moses was born to Rosie Lee Broadnax, nee Collins in Cornwall, NY. After spending time in the Delta regions of Arkansas and Mississippi, his family settled in Highland Falls, NY, where he attended Highland Falls Grammar School and was a proud member of the last graduating class of Highland Falls High School in 1971. Moses played both football and basketball and took great pride in the Raiders' victories in 1970 and 1971, when they won the Section 9 championship for Orange County, NY. His proximity to West Point allowed him to attend basketball camps coached by many of the sport’s luminaries, further shaping his love for the game. He cherished his high school years, recalling the impact of teachers like Miss Barry, his French teacher, and his coach and teacher, Dr. Ray Heitzman, as well as English teacher, Kathleen Esnes. His time as a New York State Park Ranger at Bear Mountain State Park remained one of his fondest memories.

Moses accepted a scholarship to Villanova University, where he played football and basketball. His studies in Political Science laid the groundwork for his future career as an attorney. A devoted Wildcat fan, he celebrated their victories and felt their defeats deeply—often expressing his displeasure when they did not meet his expectations. After graduating from Villanova, he earned his Juris Doctor at DePaul University in Chicago, IL.

Although Moses spent a short time in private practice, his true calling was as an Assistant Public Defender, where he passionately represented the indigent accused for over 30 years. He tried all manner of cases, including death penalty cases, and his commitment to justice propelled him to the role of supervisor. Moses recruited and mentored aspiring attorneys, helping them develop their skills and reinforcing the importance of integrity and justice in their work. He assisted in unionizing the attorneys in the Public Defender’s Office and was a plaintiff in two successful discrimination suits filed against Cook County and the office.

Moses' commitment to justice and service was recognized through esteemed honors. In 1989, he received the Thurgood Marshall Award, presented by The Black Law Student Association of Chicago-Kent College of Law. In 2007, he was awarded the Charles Hamilton Houston Award for Outstanding Service to the Poor, further cementing his legacy as a fierce advocate for those in need. In 1995, Moses proudly participated in the historic Million Man March in Washington, D.C., standing in solidarity with thousands in a powerful demonstration of unity, empowerment, and commitment to change.

On November 13, 1999, Moses and Camille were married, surrounded by family and friends, at Saint Benedict's Church in Chicago, IL. Moses and Camille built a life in their Chicago neighborhood, with Moses first discovering their home through a late-night TV advertisement. Together, they traveled to Italy, South Africa, and Costa Rica, as well as exploring great destinations across the United States. They loved camping in Wisconsin with family and friends.

Moses and Camille both enjoyed attending college basketball, football, and WNBA games together, sharing a love for the energy of the crowd and the thrill of competition—or simply listening to Moses enthusiastically analyze the plays. Whether cheering from the stands or talking through every down and turnover on the couch, those moments were a special part of the life they built together.

Moses' love for Camille was unwavering, expressed in both grand gestures and the smallest everyday moments. He affectionately called her "wifey," a name filled with warmth and devotion. Thoughtful beyond words, he delighted in surprising her with flowers and ensured she had everything she needed to pursue her passions—gifting her golf clubs and a new golf cart to support her love for the game. He valued her thoughts deeply, always seeking her opinion and reassuring her with his favorite phrase: "I am on your side." Even in difficult times, his priority was her peace of mind, gently reminding her, "I don't want you to worry. I am going to be alright."

They found joy in life's simple pleasures—long walks, conversations about everything and nothing, and evenings spent discovering new TV shows Moses thought Camille would love, even when he was hospitalized. Their home was always filled with laughter, as they cherished gatherings with family and friends—whether over lovingly prepared meals, including Moses’ much-anticipated roasted turkey and cornbread stuffing, or a spirited poker game.

Their love for Las Vegas led them to purchase a home in 2007 in the southwest valley, where they built strong friendships and cherished the community. Both enjoyed playing blackjack, with Moses being particularly devoted to the game—as well as poker—and the excitement of their favorite casino.

Moses was also an avid reader with a deep love for history, particularly the experiences and contributions of Black people in the United States. His curiosity deepened his understanding and shaped his conversations, helping to keep important stories of resilience alive.

Moses was a man of conviction, compassion, and generosity. He supported organizations that aligned with his values, including the Illinois Innocence Project, the United Negro College Fund, the National Buffalo Soldiers Museum, and Meals on Wheels. (Links below)

His legacy remains in the people he impacted, the injustices he fought, and the memories he created with those around him.

Moses was a beloved family member, survived by his wife, Camille; his siblings: Theodore (Alex), Diane, Clifton, and Stephanie; his brothers-in-law, Douglas (Karen), David (Christine), and Dan; and many nieces, nephews, grandnephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in passing by his mother, Rosie Lee Broadnax, nee Collins; his stepfather, John; and his siblings, Ruby, Will, and Hughey. His love and connection to family remained a central part of his life.

At this time, we do not say goodbye, but so long to a wonderful husband, brother, uncle, neighbor, and friend.

A private gathering will be held at a later date to celebrate Moses’ life.