Stephen J. (Stevie) Collins, a familiar voice to listeners in the Midwest and Boston area, has passed away suddenly at the age of [unconfirmed age]. Collins, originally from Curraghadooey, Claremorris, County Mayo, Ireland, died on February 24th, 2026, in West Roxbury, Boston. His unexpected passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from the community and those who knew him through his work in radio.
Collins was known for his dedication to Irish culture and community, particularly within the Irish diaspora in the United States. He was a beloved figure, remembered for his warmth, humor, and commitment to sharing Irish music, news, and stories. Details surrounding the circumstances of his death have not been released.
Born to the late Timothy and Winniefred Collins, Stephen is survived by his brothers John (Ana) Crossboyne, Mary Collins, and Sylvia Collins of Boston. He was a devoted uncle to Stephen Collins (Orlath), Michael Collins, and Marie Collins (Pat), and a cherished great-uncle to Kayleagh, Donnacha, Odhran, Niamh, and Corey. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Anne Collins, and nephew, Barry Collins.
Reposing will take place at Carey’s Funeral Home in Ballindine (F12A3C6) on Monday evening, March 9th, from 5pm to 7pm. Stephen’s remains will then be brought to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Crossboyne, for Funeral Mass at 12 noon on Tuesday, March 10th, followed by burial in Crossboyne Cemetery. The Funeral Mass will be live streamed on the Taugheen community Facebook page, allowing those unable to attend in person to participate in the service. View the livestream here.
The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Irish Pastoral Centre Boston, c/o Carey’s Funeral Directors Ballindine. Contact Carey’s Funeral Directors at 087 7675201 for further information or to create a donation. All other inquiries should similarly be directed to the funeral home at the same number.
While details of Collins’ career are still emerging, he was a well-respected figure in Midwest Radio and the broader Irish-American community. His contributions to broadcasting and his dedication to preserving Irish heritage will be deeply missed. Further information regarding his professional life and specific contributions to Midwest Radio is expected to be released in the coming days.
The Irish Pastoral Centre Boston provides a range of services to the Irish community, including immigration assistance, cultural events, and social support. Learn more about their work here.
As the community mourns the loss of Stephen J. Collins, his family and friends are preparing for his final journey home to Crossboyne. The livestream of the Funeral Mass offers a way for those far and wide to pay their respects and celebrate his life.
The coming days will undoubtedly bring further tributes and recollections of Stephen’s life and work. We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Share your memories of Stephen in the comments below, and please consider sharing this article to assist spread the word.
