My given name is Jeffrey Arlington Collins, but I am known by all as Jeff. I passed away on May 10, 2026, at Christiana Care Hospital, surrounded by my loving wife and children, following a tragic motorcycle accident.
I was born on Jan. 16, 1970, to Arlie Collins and Gloria (Bruce) Collins Gallian in the state of Georgia. I attended high school in Phoenixville, Pa., where I first met my future soulmate, Nicole. After graduation, I returned to Georgia and started a family, welcoming my adored children, Garrett and Maggie. I spent many summers at Lazy Acres family cabin competing in and usually winning fishing tournaments. I spent a lot of time at my grandparents’ farm (Maw-Maw and Pa) growing up, and later I was able to live there and help take care of Maw-Maw.
Fourteen years ago, I reconnected with Nicole and immediately knew it was meant to be. I relocated to Delaware, where Nicole let me help raise her great children, Dalton and Hailey. We introduced my kids and her kids, which became our kids, and Garrett, Dalton, Hailey and Maggie were able to become good friends through visits and group vacations. I hope that friendship continues through the years. I worked as a property manager for the state of Delaware Housing Authority for eight years trying to support my residents. For the past year, I have worked as a property manager for the Promenade Condominium Community Group in Easton, where I enjoyed getting to know my fellow employees and amazing residents.
I was preceded in death by my mother, Gloria Gallian, and my loving Maw-Maw and Pa. I leave behind a beautiful legacy with my partner in crime Nicole. She allowed me to share an amazing journey and joyful ride in raising our kids, Dalton and Hailey. I love all three with all my heart and soul. In Georgia, I am leaving behind my father, Arlie Collins; my wonderful children: son, Garrett Collins (Peyton) and daughter, Maggie Collins, who gave me so many cherished memories watching them grow into amazing adults; Arlene Collins, my Nana (bonus mom); my stepfather, George Gallian; and my best friend, Gerald “Jay” Howard (Phyllis). Though distance kept us apart more than I wished, I want all of them to always know how deeply they are loved and how vital they were to my life. Also, my extended family – my in-laws Blaine and Bunny Herrick; Jason and Mollie Thomas and their children, Alexis, Jackson, and Zoey and Alexis’s young son, Killian (all of Seaford); Scott and Lan Herrick (Vietnam) who took in a stranger and made me a part of their crazy, fun-loving family. Thanks for the great memories.
My last action on this earth was that of an organ donor. I was lucky to be a match for several people to give them a second chance at life – as they say “I’m the gift that keeps on giving” ….
I do not want a formal funeral service – just remember me with a smile, donate to your favorite charity; drop items off at your local food bank or extend a helping hand to a stranger in a difficult time. One last thing – hug your loved ones just a little tighter and know that tomorrow is never promised. Thanks for being my life, my loves and my friends – see you on the other side!
To leave a condolence, visit www.cranstonfuneralhome.com.