To the very end he kept asking questions and challenging the system.
We had organised a computer so that he might surf the net when BBC Radio Jersey made it more difficult for him to participate on phone-ins.
Alas, his general health was not quite up to the speed of his mind so he was never able to experience that latest technological wizardry for himself.
We hope that somebody else will carry on where Emille left off with the computer but we doubt if anybody will take up his political, campaigning reins.
Emille Collins was born into a particular climate for change where socialist ideas of fairness were respectable aspirations. Although he experienced all the hardships of two world wars and much much more during his long life, he never gave up on his basic, simple beliefs and his modest, personal and political ambitions.
We have previously posted blogs on Emille here on VFP 25 June 2010 and here on HERE 18 September 2010 and we have an archive of recorded interviews which we will try to publish in due course.
Also, we are very pleased to have commissioned Emille’s bronze portrait which is currently on display in the St. Helier Town Hall. We know that this image is no substitute for the man himself but hope that it might continue to influence the decision-makers in Jersey for many years to come.
Emille Collins passed away last night aged 98.
Submitted by Thomas Wellard.
11 comments:
Great Stuff
I find it so fascinating listening to the older generation talking about the Island.
RIP Emille
RS
We have in excess of two hours video footage/interview with him. We will look to put together some kind of Documentary of his fascinating and inspirational life in the near future.
A truly inspirational man and a great character. He will be sadly missed.
Gone to a better place.
RIP Emile
Was this the old chap who congratulated us on protesting against Bill Bailhache becoming Deputy Bay-Leaf?
The very same man.
He also had a few 'words' with Jimmy Perchard!!
A gutsy old soul.
emile will be missed by every true jersey man very sad day for jersey we have lost one of the best men this island has seen in many a year here is a man that should have got an OBE RIP EMILE
Honour his memory by following his example: Never stop caring about what goes on, so long and however long as you live.
Emille’s Funeral will be held on Wednesday at 10.45 am at the Crematorium followed by a meeting at the Old Magistrates Court (back of Town Hall) from 11.45am.Family, friends and former colleagues are welcome to attend.
Wonder if the Bailiff will call for a minute's silence in the States to honour Emille's lifetime of political service?
Emille Collins was born into a particular climate for change where socialist ideas of fairness were respectable aspirations.
Whaddyamean, "were"??
Post a Comment