Peter F. Collins

Peter F. Collins, age 75, of New Castle, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 31, 2024.

He was born in Wilmington, son of the late Edward T. and Jane (Pennock) Collins, Jr. and raised in Kennett Square, PA, where he attended Kennett Square High School and ultimately graduated from Episcopal Academy. Pete then attended the University of North Carolina before being drafted by the US Army during Vietnam. Upon his honorable discharge, he continued his career as a lab technician for ICI Americas for more than 40 years.  Additionally, Pete worked at the Garden Valley Nursery in Wilmington, DE for over 10 years, a job most suited for his passions.

Pete’s family is a baseball legacy. Naturally, Pete excelled in all sports, especially baseball, ultimately playing competitively in Wilmington for a semi-pro team. He was an avid fan of the Phillies and Eagles.  His true passion, however, was his devotion to his garden and photographing the birds who came to visit.  Pete was an instant friend to everyone, even up until his last day.  He will be deeply missed by all.

He is survived by his wife, Helen “Sis” (Harrity) Collins; his son, Peter Matthew Collins; step-daughters, Heather Hudson (Jerry), Holli Hudson (Brett), and Melanie Irwin; his step-grandchildren, Brian (Casey), Mallory, Joey, Emilia, and Cooper; his brother, Edward T. Collins III (Lynn); several cousins, nieces, nephews, and members of his extended family; and his beloved pets, Weezie and Stanley.

The family would like to express gratitude to Dr. Oana Tomescu of Penn Medicine for her compassionate care throughout his years and to the staff of Christiana Hospital for their kindness and respectful care during his final days.

Services for Pete will be held at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808. A visitation will take place on Thursday, February 8, 2024 from 5:00 – 7:00pm; and a memorial service will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024 at 11:00am. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Pete’s memory can be made to Autism Speaks, P.O. Box 37148, Boone, IA 50037-0148, or to a charity of your choice.

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