Darin Lewis Collins

Darin Lewis Collins, passed suddenly into eternal rest on October 16, 2024, in the city of Ocala, Florida, at the age of 59. He entered this world on March 20, 1965, in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he touched with his dedicated and loving nature.

A proud alumnus of West Chester Henderson High School, class of '84, Darin committed himself to serve his nation shortly, thereafter, joining the United States Army and faithfully fulfilling his duties from 1984 to 1988, achieving the rank of Specialist, Combat Engineer. Following his honorable discharge, he embarked on a distinguished career in public service, rising to the position of Lieutenant in the Montgomery County Prison System, where he dutifully served for 30 years. His career later took a new path as he took on the role of a truck driver with Waste Pro in Ocala, Florida, following his relocation there in 2022 with Colleen and Lexxi.

Darin's life was a testament to his unwavering commitment as a devoted husband to his wife, Colleen Flannery Collins, and daughter Lexxi, and as the loving patriarch of his family, including his son, Darin Collins II and his daughter Maysa: and his daughter Dashea Collins and her son Camren. His familial bonds were his pride, and he cherished the title of father and grandfather. 

Predeceased by his mother, Earlene Collins, Darin leaves behind a legacy of love and familial commitment. He is survived by his father, George Collins, and his stepmother, Connie, along with a supportive network including his Aunt Arminta and Uncle Bobby Adger.  His brother David Collins; his brother Rudy and sister-in-law Michelle Govan, and their children Tenayah, Carley, and Hunter; along with one grandchild: his brother Curtis Govan and his children Terrence, Dajonay, Dorrell, Iyonna, Curtis and Asia along with five grandchildren; his sister Rashida Morris and her husband Bryant along with their children Sean and Bethany; his sister Simone Collins and her husband Todd along with their children Lamont, Jon, Sa'Vannah and Kayden; and his in-laws, Joseph and Regina Flannery;  along with brother-in-law Bryan and his wife Nicole Flannery and their children Peyton and Dylan; all hold cherished memories of Darin.

Darin's zest for life was reflected in his diverse hobbies that included living the beach life in Florida and going on adventures with his wife Colleen, his dedication extended to his daughter Lexxi's activities, including a newfound love of soccer, barbecuing for his family and friends, engaging in the thrill of motorcycles, and sports cars, and watching sports on television. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved dog, King. 

His legacy is one of love for his family and friends and the joy he found in life's simplest pleasures. Darin “Driz” Collins will remain eternally in our hearts as a beacon of the devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle he was. His memory will be honored by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife, his children, family, friends, co-workers, and those he served with. Family gatherings with the extended Bradley, Collins, and Flannery families will not be the same without him.

A private viewing will be held on Sunday October 27th from 5pm till 7pm.  A viewing and a celebration of life is scheduled for Monday October 28th from 9:30 am till 11:30 am. Followed by interment at 1:30pm.  Viewing and Celebration of Life will be held at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home at 5946 SE Robinson Road, Belleview FL 34421.  The burial will be located at Bushnell National Cemetery Ceremonial Assembly Area.

A Go-Fund-Me has been set up to help the family in this time of need and aid in future education costs for Lexxi. 

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