Community
Collins 8 Foundation Partners with Lone Star College
Building Futures Through Trades In honor of Mark Collins’ passion for hard work, service, and faith, the Collins 8 Foundation
July 24, 2025
About
Our Mission
Honoring Lives, Empowering Futures
The Collins Strong Foundation was formed to honor the lives of Mark Collins and his four grandsons—Waylon, Carson, Hudson, and Bryson—who were tragically killed in 2022 by an escaped inmate. In the wake of this devastating loss, the foundation focuses on faith, community, and education. Through scholarships, service projects, and outreach, Collins Strong is committed to turning tragedy into purpose by supporting students and uplifting others who have faced hardship.
Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. John 16:22
In Loving Memory
Honoring The Collins
Mark Collins and his grandsons—Waylon, Carson, Hudson, and Bryson—lived with strong faith, deep love, and joyful hearts. Guided by their relationship with Christ, they left a legacy of kindness, integrity, and devotion to others. Their lives continue to inspire the mission and heart of this foundation.
Waylon Collins
Waylon Collins was independent, genuine, determined and competitive. He loved to play baseball, hunt and fish. Waylon was a good friend to all and loved to make people laugh.
Carson Collins
Carson was tenderhearted but fierce, loyal, and fun loving. He was working hard to make varsity football. He loved football, hunting, and hanging out with friends.
Hudson Collins
Hudson was kind, joyful and loving. Hudson was very smart and inquisitive and loved to learn. He loved to play golf, fish, and play video games with his friends. He loved to cuddle and gave hugs.
Bryson Collins
Bryson Collins, at just six years old, had a heart full of love and kindness. He celebrated his birthday with a "Jesus Loves You" theme, spreading love to everyone. A natural leader in school and sports, Bryson stood up for others and comforted those in pain. He loved baseball, football, the Astros, and Texas A&M. He was an amazing big brother, and always strived for perfection. Bryson cherished hunting and fishing trips with his dad, grandfathers, uncles, and cousins.
Mark Collins
Mark Collins was a man of faith, embodying integrity and strength in every aspect of his life. A devoted family man and loyal friend, Mark’s love for his family and friends was evident in everything he did. As a successful businessman, he led with honor, always staying true to his word. Mark had a passion for the outdoors, particularly hunting, where he found peace and joy. His unwavering faith and commitment to those he loved inspired everyone who knew him.
What Your Donations Support
Every dollar given to the Collins Strong Foundation helps bring hope and healing to families facing unimaginable loss. Thanks to your support, we’ve already been able to make a tangible impact through several meaningful initiatives.
Looking Ahead
In the future, Collins Strong hopes to provide grief counseling resources and educational materials to churches, helping them better support families walking through the pain of losing a child.
Hope Family Care Ministries
Sponsored the recording of a women’s conference in Ecuador, allowing the message of hope to reach more women across the country who have experienced loss.
Grief Support Resources
Helped fund, edit, and publish literature through Hope Family Care Ministries to equip grieving families with tools for healing.
Hope Bags for Families
Partnered with Hope Family Care Ministries to create and distribute “Hope Bags” to families who have lost a child, offering comfort in their darkest moments.
Collins Strong
Meet the Board of Directors
Our Blogs
Press Releases
Press Releases
The Heart Behind Collins Strong
In May of 2022, a devastating tragedy shook the hearts of a family, a community, and eventually, the nation. Mark
June 16, 2025
Press Releases
Collins 8 Day: A Community United
On the surface, Collins 8 Day might seem like just another date on the calendar. But to the thousands who
June 16, 2025