Obituary of Thomas J. Collins

Thomas J. Collins, 78, passed away peacefully on August 24th, 2017 surrounded by his loving family at Ocean Medical Center.  He was born and raised in Allegany, NY.  Tom received his undergraduate degree in music education from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh.  Later, he obtained his master’s in education from Loyola University in Baltimore.  Tom was a former music teacher in Randolph, NJ from 1965-1975 where he resided with his family for 30 years.  He was a member of Masterwork Choral Group and on the board of Dover Community Concert Series.

Thereafter he was President, and owner, of Campbell & Pratt Oil Company of Morristown and East Hanover.  He was past President of NJ Fuel Merchants Association.  In later years, Tom’s appreciation of antiques led him to further his education at NYU where he became an appraiser of fine arts and antiques. 

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Gail Pratt; along with 3 devoted daughters; Erin Collins-Darakjy, her husband David; Pamela Leneghan, her husband Michael; and Colleen Collins; as well as his seven grandchildren who were the light of his life; Courtney and Mark Darakjy; Michael, Shannon, Matthew and Sarah Leneghan; and Isabella Collins.  Also survived by his supportive and loving brother Gerald Collins, many nieces and nephews, along with countless other family and friends whom were blessed to know him.

Tom was fortunate to spent his winters in Hillsboro Beach, Florida where he was past President of Overlook Condo Association.  In 2016, he was named volunteer of the month at Boca Raton Regional Hospital.  One of his most treasured places was his home in Seaside Park, NJ where he spent his summers with his beloved family.

He touched the lives of many people with his infectious smile and generosity, and maintained his amazing sense of humor and determination all the way to the end.  Relatives and friends are invited for the visitation on Monday, August 28th from 5-8pm at Tuttle Funeral Home 272 State Route 10, Randolph, NJ.  The funeral service will be offered on Tuesday August 29th at 10:00am at the Assumption Church 91 Maple Avenue, Morristown, NJ.  

Based on Tom’s compassion for those facing the challenges of addiction, in lieu of flowers he requested donations be made in his name to the Hope House 19-21 Belmont Ave. Dover, NJ  07801.