Edward T. Collins, Jr., 83, of Kennett Square, former head of the history department at Episcopal Academy in Lower Merion, died of cardiac arrest Thursday at Southern Chester County Medical Center.

Mr. Collins played baseball with the Philadelphia Athletics from 1939 to 1941.

During World War II, he served as a lieutenant in the Navy aboard the Miami.

From 1947 to 1954, Mr. Collins was assistant director of the farm system for the Phillies. He was assistant general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies from 1954 to 1955.

His father, Edward T. Collins, Sr., is in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Mr. Collins was born in Lansdowne and graduated from Episcopal Academy and Yale University. In 1955, he received a master’s degree in education from Harvard University.

He taught history at Episcopal Academy from 1960 to 1982.

He also coached baseball and squash at the academy.

Mr. Collins was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Advent in Kennett Square.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jane Pennock Collins, whose father, Herb Pennock, is also in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Mr. Collins is also survived by sons Edward T. 3rd and Peter F., and four grandchildren.

A memorial service was held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 7th, at the Episcopal Church of the Advent. Burial was private.

The family suggests contributions to the Episcopal Church of the Advent, North Union Street, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348.

Mr. Collins’ 1940′s A’s home uniform is on display at the A’s Society Museum, having been donated to the Society by the late Joe Dugan, long time Society supporter.

Edward T Collins