Obituary of Gerald J. Collins

Gerald “Gerry” J. Collins, age 71, beloved husband of Kathleen Cherhoniak Collins of Ansonia, died peacefully on December 24, 2021, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family.  Born in Derby on September 12, 1950, he was the son of the late Joseph and Mildred McDermott Collins.  Mr. Collins worked as a custodian for the Three Saints Orthodox Church of Ansonia and the Church of the Good Shepherd of Orange for many years, until the time of his retirement.  He was an advocate for the elderly, helping as best he could with landscaping and odd jobs.  Gerry loved music, his favorites being Elvis, Merle Haggard and Gospel.  He was an active coach in the Ansonia basketball, soccer and baseball leagues for his son’s teams.  In addition to his wife of 25 years, he is survived by his sons, Gerald Collins of Ansonia, David (Noemi) Collins of New Haven and Christopher (Nikki) Collins of FL; a step-daughter, Tamara (Chris) Powell of VT; a sister, Jaime (Tom) Koshy of NY; cherished grandchildren, David, Matthew and Amanda Collins of New Haven; Aiden & Ayva Collins of FL, step-grandchildren, Kathryn and Robin Powell of MA; and great-grandchildren, Angela and D’Ondre Collins of New Haven and several nieces & nephews.  He was predeceased by a brother, James Collins.  Funeral services are private.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Constellation Hospice, 240 Indian River Rd., Orange, CT 06477.  The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia, is in care of arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.