Otilio Collazo, Jr. passed away on September 8, 2025, at the age of 88, in Groves, Texas. Born on June 29, 1937, in Port Arthur, Texas, he led a life marked by dedication to both his profession and helping others.
For an impressive 31 years, Otilio served as a firefighter for the City of Port Arthur, embodying the spirit of bravery and commitment that the profession demands. He loved his job, and retired from the fire department in 1990. A proud veteran, Otilio honorably served in the Army National Guard for seven years, further demonstrating his strong sense of duty and public service.
Otilio’s hobbies included fishing, boating and hunting. His favorite activity was repairing lawnmowers. He stayed busy with his business for many years. His many friends and faithful customers would not only return for repairs, but also just to catch up or to talk about the current events of the day.
Those who knew him best will remember Otilio for his kindness and generosity. He was always ready to lend a helping hand, reflecting a life filled with acts of compassion for others.
Otilio is survived by his son, David Collazo, and his spouse, Christine, of Port Arthur; grandchildren, Zachary Collazo and his spouse, Nick, Dr. Natalie Collazo, and Kasey Brough; great-grandchildren, Sydney Hunt and her spouse, Darrien, and Lauryn Brough; and great-great-grandchildren, Adreyn Hunt and Andrew Hunt. He is also mourned by his sister, Virginia Flores Howe, and her spouse, Rocky, of Paige, Texas; and brothers, Robert Flores and his spouse, Nancy, of Port Arthur, and Richard Flores of Port Arthur.
He rejoins his beloved wife of 42 years, Shirley Ann Collazo; his daughter, Shirley Ann Short; his son, Otilio Collazo, III; his brothers, Rafael Flores, Jr.; and his sister, Mary Ellen Sumaya; as well as his parents, Consuelo Hernandez Flores and Otilio A. Collazo, Sr., in eternal rest.
Visitation will be held on September 16, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home, 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, Texas, followed by a memorial service at the same location beginning at 3:00 PM.
Otilio Collazo, Jr. will be remembered not only for his service to the community but also for his willingness to help those in need. Though he has departed, his legacy of kindness and dedication will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew him.