Abraham Lincoln Collinsworth was born in Salyersville, Kentucky, February 12, 1936, on Abraham Lincoln's birthday. He passed away October 13, 2012, at the age of 76, in Orlando, Florida. Abe was the son of Judge Green and Kitty Collinsworth.

Abe was known as "Lincoln" in High School, where he played basketball and was one of the highest scorers in Kentucky High School history.

Abe attended the University of Kentucky in Lexington and played basketball for Coach Adolph Rupp. Coach Rupp started calling him "Abe" which stuck. Abe, as part of the Kentucky Wildcats "Fiddling Five", helped win a National Championship in 1958.

While at the University of Kentucky, Abe met his bride, Donetta Browning. Abe and Donetta had two sons, Greg who is deceased, and Cris. Abe and Donetta were both educators and while Donetta opted to stay home when their boys were in their early teens, Abe dedicated his life to education. He taught briefly in Ohio and moved to Brevard County, Florida in 1963. He moved up the ladder from teacher and coach to counselor, vice-principal, principal, Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Superintendent of Brevard County Schools. He became Principal of Astronaut High School in Titusville, Florida in 1972. He opened the new school and also was the principal for his two sons. In 1977, Abe became Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and in 1988, he was appointed the Superintendent of Brevard County School System. Abe retired in 1994.

Abe and Donetta moved to Orlando for their retirement. Abe enjoyed people; he loved telling stories, especially when he was the "punch line". He treasured his family and friends; a life well-lived, Abraham Lincoln Collinsworth.

Abe was preceded in death by his son, Greg; and is survived by his wife, Donetta; son, Cris, and daughter-in-law, Holly Collinsworth, and their four children, Katie, Austin, Ashley and Jac; and brothers, Tim and Ham Collinsworth; and sister, Wandaleen Bailey.

The service will be held at the Woodlawn Funeral Home, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL, on Thursday, October 18th, at 2 pm.

At the family's request, in lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 3319 Maguire Blvd., Orlando, FL 32803, 407-898-0733 online at www.lls.org.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by FloridaToday on Oct. 16, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Abraham Collinsworth

Sponsored by Lynn & Winston, Los Angeles, CA.

106 Entries

Gayle Fowler Covey

October 10, 2021

I went to the University of Kentucky when Abe was there
and he and I were in the same Gym class - tennis,
ballroom dancing (which I danced with him) and bowling
in 1954-56. My grand-daughter lives in Titusville now
and she is Press Sec. to the President of NASA and doing Space X Falcon 9 and Commercial Payload.
I am 85yrs and my birthday is Feb.8,1936 I was born.

Gayle Fowler Covey

October 10, 2020

My Sympathy goes out to your family. I was in the same PE class with
"Abe" in 1954 at the Univ. of Kentucky and would dance with him in it
and we had tennis and bowling in that class. Then, I found out that he
was in Titusville,FL where my Grand-daughter works for NASA and lives
there. Also, my oldest son has a condo there. I am 84yrs old living in
Bradenton,FL now. When I saw the picture of Chris I could see "Abe" in
him. I was a Zeta Tau Alpha pledge at UK. Fond memories.

John Cornelius

October 10, 2020

Abe and I were college classmates, athletes & Lettermen at University of Kentucky (1954-58), He was a round-baller on Adolph Rupp's teams (Nat'l Champs in 57) and I was a footballer on Blanton Collier's teams, same four years. We both landed in Titusville and were neighbors in the same community and watched many football games (Chris) and basketball games (Greg) together both at Astronaut and at away games. Greg (ace pitcher) played baseball on one of my little league teams. Abe and Donetta were always in the stands Cheering Greg on. Back in 2012 when he passed, it was sad for me and for all who knew him. Abe, Thanks for passing my way.

Sy Baker

October 10, 2020

America needs men like You were Ab. God Bless.

Coach Colinsworth and Wife Donnetta - 1961 Kings Mills High School, Kings Mils,Ohio

September 3, 2013

July 28, 2013

“Die when I may, I want it said by those who knew me best that I always plucked a thistle and planted a flower where I thought a flower would grow” (Abraham Lincoln)

As he was named, so he lived his life.

You left an amazing garden Mr. Collinsworth.

Lynn
AHS Class of 72-73

Hugh Ward

March 2, 2013

It was with a feeling sorrow and a bit of guilt when I learned of Abe's passing. I knew Abe when he played basketball at U.K. I worked at the cafeteria where the basketball players ate, and they were usually the last to get to the cafeteria because of practice. Two of the players that I knew best were John Crigler - and Abe. They were very friendly and seemed to appreciate everything we did to make sure everything was ready when they arrived. The last time I saw Abe was during the 1958 champions tour of the state. They played in Owensboro, and I took my Dad (big UK fan) to see UK players in person for the first time. I introduced him to Abe, and in his friendly manner, Abe took a lot of time to just talk with him. Abe was special, a good basketball player and a good friend while I was in school. My sincere condolences to the family. Know that it also is a loss to those of us who knew him.

Harry Hancock

December 23, 2012

Coach Collinsworth taught me at Eau Gallie Jr.High in 1962, He exemplified what a true gentleman and educator should be. Mr. Collinsworth was a major reason in my decision to become a teacher (I even wore neckties on a daily basis!) Cris, every time I see you on television , I think of your Dad. The resemblence is striking Mrs. Collinsworth, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family, Coach Collinsworth was one of the greatest men I ever knew. it was an honor to know him

Daniel V. Woodson

December 3, 2012

I'm sorry for the loss of The Collingsworth Family. I've followed Mr. Abraham Lincoln Collingsworth's son, Cris since he was a wide receiver for the Florida Gators and watched him play in the NFL for the Cincinnati Bengals. He was a gangly player and at 6'5" and now, I know where he gets his height! I was listening to the Monday Night Football broadcast tonight between my Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles and as always, I enjoy Cris' color commentating along with Al Michaels on Sunday Night Football.

This night was different. I had never heard him talk about his father and he referenced him and the type of discipline he had gotten from playing basketball for Adolph Rupp at The University of Kentucky and winning a national championship in basketball in 1958. That intrigued me because I never knew that and I'm a sports buff. I knew that Pat Riley played for Coach Rupp in 1966, so I Googled "Collingsworth Kentucky basketball" and I found the name "Abraham Lincoln Collingsworth". I was astonished; such a distinguished name!

Then, I saw something heartbreaking; (1936-2012). I then realized that just like I had over two years ago, Cris had lost his father only six weeks ago! It was quite a blow because in mentioning his father tonight, he spoke with such pride and reverence, but he did not allude to the fact that his dad has left this life. I also have lost a sibling, so I feel even closer to Cris after better understanding both of these losses in his life.

I've always respected his perspective, how he shares his craft with the viewing audience and now, I respect that he's passing it on from whence he learned it; from his father. I pray that Mr. Abraham Lincoln Collingsworth's legacy be carried forward by his wife, his son, Cris, his daughter-in-law, Holly, and his four beautiful grandchildren that I'm sure adored him so. I thank God for your well-lived life and for instilling good things in Cris' life and those whose lives you touched in your circle.

Now, your voice resonates through Cris over the airwaves as he does something he loves and through his audible expressions about the game of football, we too can better enjoy what we not only see through our eyes, but also simultaneously through his. Mr. Collingsworth, I pray that you and your son, Greg are reunited and revoicing with God!

Prayerfully,

November 16, 2012

sorry to hear about lincoln has passed i'm from salyersville and my sister helen lou patrick was in lincolns class
so sorry he was a great ball player

Gary Doughman

November 13, 2012

Coach Collinsworth was my High School Basketball Coach and was admired by all his players. He was a class act and I have remembered him fondly all my life. He not only taught us how to be better athletes but set an example of what character is all about. My sincere sympathies go out to his wife, who was also my Freshman English teacher, and his son, Chris, whom I have the pleasure of stating that I was one of his babysitters when he was an infant.

Jackie Walden

October 27, 2012

My deepest condolences to the Family of Mr. Collinsworth. He was the Principal at my High School for three of the four years I attended. 73-77. He was well liked and a good man. God Bless You Abe. See in Heaven. Please see the memorial for the class years 73-75 here. Abe was added to it. http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?v=3886930579600

October 27, 2012

Abe was close friend and a wonderful person. I will keep his family in my prayers

Irene Sue Cain Prater
175 Washburn Ln
Taylorsville, KY 40071

Coach John Davenport

October 25, 2012

I was so saddened to hear of Abe's passing. He was such a role model for so many people. My memories of Abe are those times he would brag about Chris and Greg for hours and always was so proud of his boys. Abe was a huge influence on my career. He was always so supportive and encouraging. My thoughts and prayers go out to Chris and Donetta. John Davenport

Patti Losinger Clark

October 23, 2012

My family and I (brother, Tom Losinger, mom, Pat Losinger Jordan), are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Mr. C. He always had a wonderful twinkle in his eye, a great big smile - and he had this way of knowing just what to say to you...kind of like he knew what you were thinking! Our hearts break for the whole Collinsworth family and our prayers are with you!

Mark Heltzel

October 23, 2012

I was very sorry to hear of Mr. Collinsworth's passing. He meant a lot to all of us from AHS. Couldn't have been easy to start a new HS, but what a great job he did. He will be missed by thousands.

Tom Teal

October 22, 2012

Coach Collinsworth and Mrs Collinsworth were integral parts of my high school athletic career at KHMS in Ohio. My prayers go out to the entire family in the loss of such a good man. May God Bless!!

Judy Davis

October 22, 2012

Love and prayers to the Collinsworth family. Judy (Hunt) - Eau Gallie High class of 65

Michael LeBlanc

October 22, 2012

I was very sorry to hear of the loss of Mr. Collinsworth. I can still remember when I was about 9 years old, me and his son Greg were playing catch in the backyard of his home on Collony drive when I thew the baseball and broke a window. This towering man, a giant in stature came outside. He looked down at me and I thought for sure I was a finished. He just said to be carefull. Some 45 years later I still remember that simple act of kindness and understanding. Mrs Collinsworth, Donetta was also very nice to me and use to take me along with Greg to watch Cris play basketball or baseball. Just a very nice family whom I was pleased to share a part of my life with.

Bob Carlson

October 21, 2012

Mrs Collinsworth and Cris, Coach "Abe" was my mentor at Eau Gallie High. I have fond memories of Abe, and your family. Remember the day when he showed his basketball skills in an exibition against the Redheads girls team, he stole the show. I had lunch with Coach several years ago in Rockledge, Fl. I was able to share with him how much he ment to me and that I wish that he would have stayed with us in 1970 my senior year. We would have been without question the best team in the county. I was Blessed to also marry a Kentucky girl, we are and will always be Wildcat fans. I will always be a fan of "The Coach". God bless you and Cris,

sharrell callon

October 21, 2012

To a WONDERFUL FAMILY, YOU ARE TRULY BLESSED..AHS Class of '79..we have such GREAT MEMORIES of Greg, Chris and Mr. "C" and ALL KNOW WHAT A "VISIONARY" he was and COULD ENCOURAGE ANY ONE TO DO THAT MUCH BETTER...RIP and may the family find COMFORT and PEACE in the QUIET times to come. Guy/Martha/Sharrell Callon and family

Mark Lott

October 21, 2012

God Bless you coach for your many hours of leading our team at EGHS. You were one of kind.

Thelma Gentry Pine

October 20, 2012

My prayers and deepest sympathy go out to you the family of our beloved principle. As you go through this time of grief may the love of family and friends sustain you as well as your faith.

Kim Ratcliff

October 20, 2012

Mr. Collinsworth made AHS a great High School I moved to Michigan my senior year but would have loved to graduated from AHS. Prayers for your family.

October 20, 2012

To Mrs. Collinsworth and family I was a student a Kings Mill High school and coach Collinsworth was so great we all Loved him especially the girls I think we all had a mad crush on him. He will I am sure be missed by his loved ones and friends I have your family in my Prayer's God Bless may he Rest In Peace.
Eileen Hutzel class 1960 KMHS

Joe Hill

October 20, 2012

A kind caring man. I respected him always. I can say the same for his son Chris who I personally knew. My prayers are with you all. He was truly one of the Great men of our community.

Lisa Nordstrom

October 19, 2012

Always accessible, respectful and contained, Mr. Collinsworth encouraged everyone to reach further and be our best selves. He was a perfect example of what a real man should be and raised a couple of real men to boot. Godspeed Abe Collinsworth and peace to your family who will carry you forever in their hearts. Astronaut Class of '76

Beth Mihay mahdesian

October 19, 2012

May god grant you his peace as you mourn the loss of your dear Abe. His kindness to me will never be forgotten.

Stephanie Harris

October 19, 2012

So sorry for your loss. Love and Prayers Collingsworth family

Scott McCallister

October 19, 2012

Everything said here is true and way more! I miss him already. He had great judgement in people as so many have described here. He hand picked the people at Astronaut that impacted me in so many ways. Through Uncle Abe, a rookie coach named Jay Donnelly some how got me into college and on the football team at Eastern Kentucky University. It was there that I met my wife and will be forever greatful. Thank God the mold was not broken after Uncle Abe was made and he knew it. Cris and Greg were blessed with all the same great qualities. I was always so proud to be his nephew and to have been one of the lucky kids to have been at Astronaut under his leadership. Thanks for everything Uncle Abe.

Lou Ann & Jerry Mihay

October 19, 2012

May you be conforted with the memories of your dear husband, father and grandfather. Our prayers are with all of you and may God be with you in the coming days.

Frank Touchberry

October 19, 2012

Donetta, Chris and family - as you can
attest to, and all the friends and acquaintances as well, We were all blessed to have known Abe and to have
shared time with him and his family.

Gary & Linda Clark

October 19, 2012

Condolences to the Collinsworth family=Abe gave me an opportunity to work in the school system- that not only changed our life but helped changed others-he will be missed.

October 19, 2012

Condolences to the Collinsworth family will always remember Mr Collinsworth at Pop Warner practice. From Dave Lopez California

John Porta

October 19, 2012

The Porta Family would like to add their condolences to the Collinsworth family. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family of this great caring individual, whom had a heart, compassion and words of wisdom for all students including the beer drinkers and hell raisers! God Bless job well done!

Timothy Hickman

October 18, 2012

My prayers to the family of AHS' first principal. We will miss you. Lord bless you all. '74

Sandy Holland Knox

October 18, 2012

I was greatly saddened to hear about the passing of Coach Collinsworth. He was special to the class of 62 at Kings Mills High. My prayers are with the family.

andrew workum

October 18, 2012

Memories are profound for the times our daughters spent at astronaut high school and the education they received there. Our thoughts are with you at this time.
Andy Workum (father of Jeny, Katy, Rosemary, Peggy and Andrea) and their mom Tish

October 18, 2012

Cris and family,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your wonderful father. I met Abe when Greg was ill and it was obvious he was a strong, deeply caring man who cherished his family. I hope you find peace with all of the wonderful memories of such a great man.

My heart goes out to all of you.
Bonnie Shelley

Myra (Franklin)

October 18, 2012

Our deepest sympathy. I am Mildred and Henry's daughter. I always enjoyed seeing Lincoln and remember when I was small playing games with the boys at Aunt Kitty's house. I know he will be missed by many. Prayer, Myra(Franklin) Stevens

October 18, 2012

My deepest sympathy Donetta and all the family for the passing of Mr. Collingsworth, as I always called him. He was my principal at Astronaut High. Such a warm caring person whom will be deeply missed. God Bless and know you are in my heart.
Valerie German Class of 1977

Valerie German Harre, Palm Bay, Florida

judy

October 18, 2012

Mr Collinsworth was our high school coach in Kings Mills Ohio He was a very nice person and thought highly by everyone. My thoughts go out to his family

Sandi Folger Garcia

October 18, 2012

Mrs. Collinsworth and Cris, my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. One of my fondest memories was looking up at him and seeing his ever present smile. What a wonderful principal he was. He will be missed. I will keep you in my prayers.

October 18, 2012

Donetta, Chris and all of the Collinsworth family, the Charron family sends you our heart felt sympathy for your loss. We send you our prayers to heal your pain with the knowledge that Abe is now at peace. So many memories. God speed, Abe.
Mark and Claire Charron

Tammy and Rick Schroder

October 18, 2012

We love the Collinsworth family our deepest to you all

Bob Culbertson

October 18, 2012

Abe was in my high school graduating class; we were on the basketball team together. He was a friend and respected by all who knew him. Condolences to the family of Abe.

Bill Posey

October 18, 2012

Thoughts and prayers are with Abe's family. He was clearly the best Superintendent of Public Schools ever in Brevard County.

Mark and Brenda Lanaris

October 18, 2012

One only has to read the entries posted here by many people, over many years, of all ages to understand the character of Mr. Collinsworth and the many lives he impacted. We have had the precious gift of being students, friends and practically family of Abe, Donetta, Cris, Greg and Cris's beautiful wife Holly. His family is his world, especially the lights of his life--his grandchildren! His legacy continues through them. Abe, Greg, Jim and Jane are enjoying each other, a very special game of golf and smiling on all of us! Our Love to you all, Mark, Brenda, Terry Lanaris and Family

Bonnie Gilkerson Madden

October 17, 2012

The family of Mrs. Charles Gilkerson (Betty Collinsworth) will keep the Abe Collinsworth family in our thoughts and prayers. Our deepest condolences. Bonnie Gilkerson Madden. Winter Park, FL

Wayne Hensley

October 17, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Lincoln was my first cousin,our mothers were sisters. I will miss him deeply. We will keep all of you in our prayers.

Carla Snook

October 17, 2012

My Deepest Sympathy to the Family and Friends of my MOST Favourite Principal ever. I was in the Original Charter Class (75) of Astronaut High School. We were cutting edge; and that way because of our leadership at the school. My Dad will now have someone to remember all the AWESOME sports stories about the Collinsworth Sons with in Heaven. Rest in Peace Mr. Collinsworth.

gary schutte

October 17, 2012

My mother inlaw Peggy Campell worked for
Mr.collisworth years ago had a vey high reguard for him. So sorry for the family loss Gary Schutte

October 17, 2012

Condolences to Donetta, Chris and his family. Sad, again. Losing Greg a few years back was very emotional for me ... and now Abe, a college classmate, friend and K-Club letterman (54-58)and a great neighbor in Titusville. God Speed, Abe ... and say hi to Greg for me. John C (Mims LL Coach of Greg's)

October 17, 2012

We were so very saddened to hear that Abe had passed away; he was a fine gentleman & you have our deepest sympathy for your loss. Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
George & Pat Cohen, Mims, Florida

John Manuel

October 17, 2012

Mr. Collinsworth was my physical education teacher at Eau Gallie High School in Melbourne, FL (in 1964-65 city was called Eau Gallie)in my junior/senior years. Now I don't remember many of my high school teachers but him I do. He was instructive, considerate, and an all around great person. Thanks to Coach Abe, I met his son Cris in Cincinnati (1983) when he played for the Bengals. Another Gentleman

My genuine heartfelt sympathy to the family

Jean Sauer DeFrances

October 17, 2012

It was with heartfelt sadness that I learned of Abe's passing. We taught together at Eau Gallie High School when it first opened. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. I know the family is grateful for your lives with Abe, and I feel fortunate to have known him.

Bones,Barb,Ryan egan

October 17, 2012

Our deepest sympathy to the Collinsworth family. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family, and your mother. May god bless him.

Jan Shade Beach

October 17, 2012

Mr. Collinsworth was a wonderful man. He encouraged all at AHS to challenge themselves, dream big and strive to do great things. He had a firm grip on doing what was right, but always managed to sneak in humor to lighten the moment. A job well done Mr. C. Please give Greg a hug for me.

The Webb Family

October 17, 2012

With deepest sympathies.....

judy holley

October 17, 2012

Abe was our basketball coach when I was in high school in Kings M
ills Ohio. He was liked by everyone . He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go to his family
Judy Holley. Class of 1962

Susan Armstrong Mabry

October 17, 2012

Our hearts goes out to Donetta, Chris and family. You will be in out thoughs.

October 17, 2012

Our Sincere Sympathy, Don and Polly Betz
Friends of Peg and George Ketchum who spoke often of Abe and Family. Mason, Ohio

Dennis, Kyle and JoAnne Berry

October 17, 2012

Abe stopped by our business (Berry Signs) in
Rockledge to place an order for a sign. My husband and son had the pleasure of talking with him. To my misfortune, I was not there. He talked with them about KY Basketball for my husband is from KY.
Also about Cris and football. Abe made a
lasting impression on them in just one hour of his time. For when my son Kyle read the paper yesterday, he was sadden by the news
of Abes' passing and well as we all were.
It says alot about a man's stature when
he leaves a lasting a memory with such a brief moment in passing. May God Bless his
family at this time.

October 16, 2012

Abe was our high school basketball coach when I was in high school and my husband Roger played for him. The world has lost two great guys (my husband died in 2009) but I am sure they will be reminiscing about Kings Mills High School. My prayers with the family. Terry Palmer Coomer

Judy Brumbaugh

October 16, 2012

Donetta & Cris,
I had the privilege of knowing ABE and the family many years ago, like in 1959 when my Dad (C.H. Allison) hired Abe to be basketball coach at Kings Mills. We the students loved him....
Class of '62 just celebrated our 50th, in May. We missed Abe. There were many fond memories from those years at Kings Mills. Dad passed in 2004, Mom passed in 1985. I've been in Blanchester for 46 years and taught for 30 and now retired 16 plus years.
I send my thoughts and prayers to you all.
Judy Allison Brumbaugh.

October 16, 2012

Mr. Collinsworth was my 10th grade counselor at Eau Gallie High School. Six years later he remembered me and I was hired as a first year teacher. I remember how good he was to the staff and students. We were the best and he made us that way. He will be remembered.
Marie Sivley Duguay (Melbourne, FL)

Chuck, Bonnie and Randy Minnihan

October 16, 2012

With our deepest sympathy.

Jeny Workum Stokes

October 16, 2012

Having taught for 30 years, I realize that what we had at Astronaut High School was very, very special. That is in no small part due to a good principal. I have wonderful memories of going to school with Chris and Greg, with Mr. Collinsworth as our principal. We lost our mother to leukemia 12 years ago; my prayers are with the family.

Bill Cooley

October 16, 2012

Isaw him play many games at both Saylersville and UK.
Bill Cooley UK class of 58

Dottie Ramsey

October 16, 2012

We lost a great man. My thoughts and prayers are with Donetta, Chris, family, and friends. I take great comfort that he is now with Greg, another great man we lost almost 8 years ago.

Bill Smith

October 16, 2012

Abe was the only coach I ever had in my entire tenure at Kings Mill, Ohio back in the 60s'. He was a wonderful example for many of us, and shaped our lives. I never met a finer man.

Kim White

October 16, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Collinsworth family. Mr. C was my principal in the mid 70's when I was a very shy teen at AHS. That school was "golden" and he set the tone. He was very strong yet humble and kind. I am grateful to have known him. God be with you and yours!

October 16, 2012

Rest in peace, daddy Bengel.

Doug and Page Shrewsbury

October 16, 2012

Donetta and Chris,
It was with great sadness that we read of Abe's passing in today's newspaper. He was a fine man and will be missed by many people in Brevard County that worked with him over the years. Abe and I opened Eau Gallie High School together. May God be with both of you at this time.

Joe & Doris Campbell

October 16, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Donneta, Chris and family. We had a lot of respect for Abe.

Wil "Billy" Walker

October 16, 2012

My deepest condolences to the Collinsworth family. As a student leader in Astronaut High's first year it was a privilege to work with Mr. Collinsworth. He had a tough job of pulling a new and divided study body together and he did it like a champ. He was fun, honorable, and a pleasure to know and work with. He also worked with my father at the Brevard County School System. I'll never forget running into him at the Atlanta football stadium during a Cincinnati Bengals vrs Atlanta Falcons game which was freezing and full of snow, we shared laughs and memories. He always showed me kindness and respect (even when sometimes I didn't deserve it.) God bless you all during this loss. They don't make 'em much better than Abe Collinsworth!

Sherry Blanton Tierney

October 16, 2012

Uncle Abe is telling some great stories in Heaven right now. Love to Donetta, Cris, Holly, and the kids.

Robert McNeill

October 16, 2012

My heart goes out to Donetta , Chris and the Collinsworth family. Abe was a fine gentleman and a great guy. He will always be missed.

Sy Baker

October 16, 2012

Prayers to the family. Abe was a major contributor to Brevard's fine school system. Always a gentleman, always a leader.

Port St John Eagles

October 16, 2012

Our prayer to his family
He was a great person

Lori Daniel

October 16, 2012

I will always remember you telling me. I was your favorite cashier at Winn Dixie. You touched so many lives with your charm, wit and infectious smile. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Collingsworth family and friends. God has another angel in heaven now.

Gina Collinsworth

October 16, 2012

Donetta and Cris & Family, It saddened me to hear that Lincoln was ill and more when Dad call me about his passing. My prayers are with you all. I understand the greif of losing people who are so special. God bless you and keep you safe. Love, Gina

October 16, 2012

My sincerest sympathy on your loss. I remember Abe as a great parent, principal, and superintendent.

H. Fielding Hossley (retired - Madison Middle School)

Dale Mays

October 16, 2012

What a great man. And what an outstanding legacy he has left us all. Mr. Collinsworth gave me my very first job in 1975. Apparently he saw something in me, and took a chance hiring me right out of UF. 38 years later, because of his vision and wisdom, I continue to teach....I continue to fight the good fight, everyday, just as he did. A great principal, a great superintendent of Brevard County Schools...but more important a great husband, father, and grandfather. My deepest condolences to the Collinsworth family.

Neil Macklin

October 16, 2012

Prayers go out to Donetta and Cris at the passing of Abe! A Great man who touched many lives and will fondly be remembered.

Bruce Bushong

October 16, 2012

Our condolences to the Collinsworth family. I attended Titusville Astronaut HS in the late '70's and were friends with his sons Cris and Greg. His legacy will always be at that high school.

Tish Lawing

October 16, 2012

I will always cherish the memories I have of you as my high school principal. I still have the picture of you shaking my hand as you gave me my diploma. Thank you for dedicating your life to the teaching and helping of children. You were an amazing man that will be missed by everyone. RIP Mr. Collinsworth.

Janice Rigsbee Hughes

October 16, 2012

Sincere condolences to the Collinsworth family. I have always had fond memories of Mr. Collinsworth as "my principal" at Astronaut High. He was such a pleasant man, and always had a smile. He will be greatly missed.

Jack Richert

October 16, 2012

I had the honor of playing on Coaches first Eau Gallie High School basketball team. The greatest coach/mentor I ever played for. May God bless you Chris, your mom and family.

Kathy Mack Grantham

October 16, 2012

What a privilege it was to have Mr. Collinsworth as my principal at Astronaut High! He was such an approachable and respected administrator. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Pat Sauer

October 16, 2012

My deepest sympathy to the family. Although I didn't personally know Abe, my sister Jean taught with him at Eau Gallie way back when and even babysat for Chris a time or two.

Dan and Linda Ryker

October 16, 2012

Our condolences to Donetta and Collinsworth family. It was a honor to have Abe as a friend. In memory of a wonderful person.

October 16, 2012

The Vassoler Family of Titusville express their deepest sympathy to all the family. Rememabering all the years we have had together in our daily life with joy to have known Mr. Collinsworth. Aldo Sr., Rosemarie, Aldo Jr. and Louis Vassoler. May God richly bless all of you and shine His wonderful grace upon you in your hour of need. The Vassoler Family from Titusville, Florida.

October 16, 2012

Rest in peace Mr. Collingsworth. You were an amazing principal, I am so honored that I knew you. I remember you saying in your speech the year I graduated in 1977 that you were graduating with us as it was your last year at Astronaut as well. Later when my daughter began school in Brevard County how comforting it was to know that you were over the Brevard County Schools. You touched so many people's lives and I know you are now rejoicing in heaven with your son Greg.

Cathy Birdsong

October 16, 2012

I first met Abe in the early 1980's when I was working with the Professional Practices Office of the Florida Department of Education and he was on the Professional Practices Commission. We had a special bond when he learned that I was in the first sophmore class at Satellite High School and alformer resident of Brevard County. He was a mentor from a distance when I becamee a Personnel Director. He was very fair and ethical man who contributed much to the field of education. When he made decisions about education, he thought of students and staff. He was proud of his famiy and enjoyed life. He often shared stories about his family. I just lost my mother on 9/15/2012 and understand your grief. May the memories that you have of him help you throught this transition. Thank you for sharing Abe with the education communities throughout the State.

Jan HILTON

October 16, 2012

RIP Mr. C thanks for all you did for education, and the classes of A.H.S.

Donni Ritchie-Morris

October 16, 2012

My deepest sympathy to the family, I have known the Collinsworth family since the 8th grade and grew up with the boys, I have grand memories of Mr Collinsworth as our principal at AHS, he was wonderful, friendly, his smile lit up the school, RIP Mr Collinsworth and Greg, send Angels to the family in their time of mourning Lord Amen

Theresa Reimer

October 16, 2012

He was a strong and calming influence during some turbulent times at AHS. A great leader, a strong influence and a proud and loving father - he will be missed by those who knew him throughout the years.

Dick Rawle

October 16, 2012

Donetta and Cris, my heart aches for your loss. Abe was a visionary in all he ever did and will be missed as a fellow professional, but more importantly, will be missed more as a good friend. The good times we shared will never be forgotten. Wish we could be you on Thursday to honor Abe and his wonderful life. Rest in peace my friend, free from pain and suffering.

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