Paul Edson Collis, 83, of Hollywood, Maryland, passed away on June 6, 2026 in Leonardtown, Maryland.
Born on January 30, 1943, in Twin Falls, Idaho, Paul was the son of Sam Collis and Vivian Massey Collis. He grew up in Idaho and graduated from Jerome High School before attending the University of Idaho, where he studied agriculture for two years. He later served in the Air Force National Guard and completed electronics trade school training that would shape much of his professional career.
Paul devoted over four decades of service to DynCorp, beginning in 1971. He was also an avionics electrician and technician on the F/A-18 program for Boeing for six years. Known for his strong work ethic and remarkable mechanical and electrical abilities, Paul could fix nearly anything and found great satisfaction in building, renovating, and improving homes and various equipment throughout his life.
In 1983, Paul and his family relocated from Roy, Washington to Hollywood, Maryland, where they became deeply involved in their church and community. A devoted member of the church of the Nazarene in Hollywood, Paul faithfully served on the worship team “One Accord,” sharing his love of music and faith through singing and ministry. He also volunteered by performing music at nursing homes and participated in numerous mission trips to Africa, Ecuador, Egypt, Panama City, Colombia, and Mexico, where he helped share the Gospel and show the Jesus Film to native cultures.
Paul had a lifelong passion for learning and investing, especially in stock market research and trading. He also enjoyed guitar playing and providing lessons to youth and adults. He cherished time on the water powerboating with family, bicycling, long-distance cycling trips, kayaking, home renovation projects, and buying and restoring houses and cars. He was proud to provide college funding for all four of his grandchildren and found joy in helping his family build financially secure and meaningful lives.
Above all, Paul will be remembered for his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, his love for sharing the Gospel, and his faithful service to others. He was laid back, quiet, knowledgeable, dependable, extremely loyal, hardworking, and a trusted friend. He especially cherished reading his Bible, praying, and spending time with family and friends. He cherished his childhood friend Sammy and close friend Lanny Wall.
Paul was preceded in death by his eldest son, Daniel Edson Collis, and daughter-in-law Jen Pulos Collis; and by his sister, Carol Wilson. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Darlene Lark Carlson Collis, whom he married on September 3, 1966; his son, Brian Allan and daughter-in-law Tara Gardner; his grandchildren, Lauren McCorison, Ian, Ethan and Sierra Collis; and his stepbrothers, Warren, Quinten, Myron Jackey.
A service will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at the Hollywood Church of the Nazarene; 24710 Sotterley Road, Hollywood, MD 20636.
Paul’s legacy of faith, generosity, service, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.
Condolences to the family may be left at www.brinsfieldsfuneral.com.
Arrangements by Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.
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