To know him, was to love him. We are to be like Christ in His Love. Tilford's life was a loving example of the bible Verse: "Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" (Ephesians 5:2 NIV)

On May 13, 2021, Tilford Renard Collins returned to his heavenly home. He was known for his infectious smile and his compassionate spirit.

Tilford was born to Russ and Geraldine Collins on September 27, 1961, in Houston, Texas. He was raised in Houston's historic 5 ^th Ward. He would often say "Born and raised in beautiful 5 ^th Ward, and I love the place I was born." At a young age, Tilford professed Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was a dedicated member of Sanctuary of Praise Church, under the leadership of Rev. Wendell K. Greenleaf.

Tilford was educated in the Houston public schools. He was a proud graduate of Phillis Wheatley High School, Class of 1980. He was a "Mighty" Wildcat for life.

He met his soulmate, Bonita Sterling, in 1984. To this union; three beautiful daughters were born; Tia Chauneice Collins, Taylor Treniece Collins, and Kieara Brene' Collins. His daughters were his heart and joy and he took extreme pride in them. In 1995, he became employed by the Tyson Corporation, where he remained employed for 26 years until his health failed. Tilford held various positions within the Tyson organization.

His family meant the world to him, and his love for family extended beyond his immediate family. He never wanted to lose touch so he made an effort to visit friends and family often, and call daily. In his leisure time, he loved fishing and was always ready to cast a line. This was a hobby he and Bonita would often do together. He loved spending time with his friends and was always the first one on the dance floor to show off his dancing prowess. Which made the family deem him the title of "Little Social Butterfly".

Tilford was preceded in death by his parents, Russ and Geraldine Collins; and his brother, Relford Collins.

Loved ones that will miss and cherish Tilford's memories are his wife, Bonita Sterling; his daughters, Tia Collins, Taylor Collins, and Kieara Collins-Avila (Christian); his siblings, Wilford Collins (Charlotte), Clara Cox (Dwayne), Stephani Collins, LaShena Harris, Carlton Wright, Kim Mayon (Eric), Karen Babineaux (Joseph), Shelia Daniel, Regina Daniel, Kevin Daniel, and Tara Harkless (Gary); Aunts, Gloria Benjamin and Annie Gilliam; his nieces, his nephews, The Sterling Family, his group of best friends; Mike Nelson, Kerry Walker, Thomas Meeks, Andrew "Gary" Landry and Russell Robertson, along with a host of other cousins, relatives, and friends.