Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Mark Collins Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mark Collins
Cathy Soon Holzmeister
March 27, 2008
I was very sorry to hear that the world lost the presence of such a special soul. However, Mr. Collins will always be remembered and his spirit will remain in the hearts of many. Even though I had not seen MC in over ten years, I still thought of him often and still treasured the lessons and advice he gave to me. He also definitely made my years at Millington Central High School more bearable. He also helped to give me the courage to leave Millington and follow my dreams. I have been all over the world as a model and am currently finishing my degree in Political Science. I'm not sure where life will take me next, but I have the confidence to try anything. I owe Mark a great deal for that. My heart goes out Leiza and the girls. My prayers are with you.
Holli Haynie, formerly Weatherington
March 20, 2008
I am so fortunate that I got to see Mr. Collins just a few months ago at a play at Cordova High. I spotted him in the band and knew right away it was him. I hadn't seen him in 12 years but it was like we had never spent a day apart. It's hard to fully express the impact Mr. Collins had on me in high school, but I always remember my times in his drama and play production classes at Millington throughout my four years (92-96) as the best times of that period, the only thing that made high school bearable. He let his students be who we were and always encouraged our creativity. I wanted to be a writer, and in his class, I got to write plays with other students for the Thespian Conference. We did improv in class - the most fun. I was in several of his plays, both on stage and behind the scenes. I went on a class trip to New York City with him when I was 15 years old. You could always talk to him about your life and concerns. He really inspired us all to be the dreams we had inside. To his family, take comfort in the fact that he touched our lives more than you can ever know, he had a lasting impact - he helped some of us lift from the depths of negativity around us and make something of our lives. Now I am a writer and I'll always be thankful that Mr. Collins and I connected one last time and he got to see the person I became. And I got to give him a big hug. I will always cherish him.
We love you always Mr. Collins!
Kathleen Null
March 4, 2008
I am so terribly sorry to hear of Mr. Collins untimely departure from here. As a student of his at Millington (94-97) I can truely say he was such an inspiration to any one who was blessed by his prescence. I can still remember like yesterday being terrified thinking I had made a huge mistake taking a theatre/speech class, how in the world would I be able to get up and talk infront of these people, but Mr Collins had a way of making the shyest kid feel confident enough to get up infront of the largest of crowds and perform. Even though he was gone from Millington my senior year, I could still hear his words echoing in my ears as I made my graduation speech. All the world is but a stage and a great man has took his final bow. You will greatly be missed.
Amy (Hurt) Gust
March 3, 2008
My deepest sympathy to everyone whose life Mark touched. Mark was a wonderful teacher and mentor. His passion for the arts was contagious! He will never be forgotten!
Stephanie Woodard
March 2, 2008
TO the Collins Family My heart goes out to you. I haven't been around Mark for years but the impact he made on my children will never be forgotten. May God bless and keep you. Know that you are in our prayers.
The Entire Woodard Family MCHS
Allison Yarbrough
March 1, 2008
Mr. Collins was my favorite teacher of all time. I took his class as an elective course and he taught me so much about film. He had the greatest sense of humor and I learned so much from him aside from the curriculum. He truly has a wonderful spirit!
Laurie Tronsor
February 29, 2008
Dear Leiza, K.A. & Emily,
My heart broke for all of you when I learned of your loss. I only met Mark once or twice about 10 years ago (when my daughter Maggie was friends with Emily at St. Paul Preschool), but I remember thinking what a cool Dad he must have been--so talented musically & theatrically & what a great match he was for you, Leiza.
May God comfort you all in the days to come.
Lucy Hoard
February 29, 2008
Mrs. Collins,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lucy Hoard and family.
Lynn Clark
February 29, 2008
Dear Collins Family,
We are honored to have met Mark this past year at Arlington High School. He was a mentor, friend, influence and wonderful person to be around. He exuded such energy and passion for the theatre and teaching his students. He was an inspiration to our son and his students and believed in their talent one hundred percent. We are grateful for the time that West could learn from his knowledge and love of the theatre. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Please know that he touched so many lives in a positive, loving way. He will be missed, but I don't think he will ever be forgotten.
May God bless and keep you,
The Clark Family
Bob, Lynn, Callyn and West Webb
KAITLIN MCDONALD
February 29, 2008
DEAR COLLINS FAMILY,
I NEVER GOT THE CHANCE TO MEET MR. COLLINS, BUT I KNOW THAT HE WAS A GREAT MAN. HE WILL BE DEARLY MISSED BY EVERYONE AT AHS. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE COLLINS FAMILY.
Cynthia Cottrill
February 29, 2008
Unfortunately, in looking for another name, I came upon this one. I am SO sorry for your loss. I am an alumni from Millington Central High School. Currently, part time, I teach acting classes at a modeling agency in Memphis. I use Mr Collins' techniques to this day. This is such a sad and shocking surprise; I wish there were something more I could do. I always remember him talking about his family and how much he loved you guys!
Just remember that things happen for a reason, and it is true....he has created good memories that we will ALL keep.
Samantha Baddley
February 29, 2008
I first decided to take this class with my friend liz anthony and i only took this class for my fine arts credit. But now that i look back im glad she made me take this class....it gave me the chance of a lifetime...to meet mr. collins. In his class he pushed me to do things i thought i would never do. "all the worlds a stage and all the men and women merely players..." that was the last performance i and his 2nd period students in intro to theatre did. You will be GREATLYYY missed. "I hope you had a good day yesterday and that life is treating you well today."-mark collins. he never started a class without saying that phrase. i miss you and have great respect for your family. Much love,
Suzy Strang
February 29, 2008
I was a student at Cordova High School and Mr. Collins was my all time favorite teacher. He gave me support when I needed it and made me confident in myself. I don't think I'd be in college right now if it weren't for him. I found out in class and almost burst out crying. I'm so sorry for your loss. My condolences and that of my family go out to you. He will be greatly missed.
Leslie Ginn (Mikell)
February 29, 2008
Mr. Collins was the most influential teacher I had. My heart goes out the the family; you are in my prayers. With fear of sounding cliché, words can't express what impact he had on my life, and I'm sure countless others. He helped people find their voice. He was my teacher for 3 years at Millington, and even though he left right before our senior year, his influence was still felt in the theatre. I played the Wicked Witch in the Wizard of Oz my senior year, and I know I could not have done it without having known him. I truly thank God that our paths crossed, for without him, I would not be the person I am today.
May God bless the Collins Family.
Taylor Lindsey
February 29, 2008
I don't thinks words could describe how much coach meant to me. He is the reason for my past and future. He pretty much made me who I am today. He was such an inspiration everyday to me and taught me something new every minute i was .with him He is the ultimate reason why I am becoming a theatre teacher, just like him. He gave me confidence in myself and was there for me whenever I needed him. He taught me theatre and life skills that I'll have with me for the rest of my life. He believed in me more than anyone else has and I miss him very much. I have had him every year in 4th period(the longest period of the day) since my freshman year. He will live in my heart, and my future teaching forever. C.A. Emiliy and Mrs. Leeza, know that every single one of us is here for you with anything, esp. us seniors. We love your family very much and we'd all be completely different and lost people without Coach.
Nora (Patton)Hope
February 28, 2008
Dear Leiza,CatherineAnn&Emily,
I have such happy memories of all of you 10+ years ago when I worked with StPaul Preschool and our children attended there. Mark was an amazing man with a heart the size of the sky. May God Bless you and comfort you during this sad and difficult time. Please know that many are praying for you.
Much Love
Stephanie Hirsh
February 28, 2008
He will be deeply missed by everyone whose life he touched.
Melida Jemmott
February 28, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Guillermo Jemmott
February 28, 2008
Collins Family,
Mark Collins was great man of influence in my life for the little time I knew him and he will always be remembered and greatly missed. All of you will be in my prayers
Chelsea Johnson
February 28, 2008
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Fran Wilson
February 28, 2008
I went to school with Mark at Lambuth. As a fellow Theater major, we had so much fun together. I will never forget his performance in "Of Mice and Men". When I put together a Drama Camp at U of M, Mark helped. Mark shared his gift with many. A few years later, he worked with two of my children in Cordova's Theater program. He is a treasure and will be missed by many.
Chad Crowell
February 28, 2008
I am terribly sad right now. Mark Collins was the most inspirational person in my life outside of my parents. Through a speech class, I came to gain interest in play production and through his urging, tried my hand at acting and found something new and exciting. I don't act any longer but I found out a lot about myself through his teachings, and am proud to look back on him as a true friend and mentor. I had the greatest senior year one could ask for with Mr. Collins for homeroom, 2nd period speech, 4th period teacher's assistant for him, 5th period drama and 6th period play production. He let us drive to Wendy's for lunch and took the heat when we got caught. I watched him and Leiza fall in love and get married. I still have the VHS tapes of Little Shop of Horrors and Fame, and still get chills when I watch them every so often, because he brought out the best in his students and the productions were amazing. I know he practically went broke financing his kids' dreams beyond the school budget for plays. I left MCHS and Millington the day after graduation in 1992 and have thought many times about trying to track down Mr. Collins- I'm heartbroken that he'll never know the impact he had on my young life and I hope that his legacy lives on in his students and family - this great great man deserves sainthood. Leiza and family, you are in our prayers and Mark is in our hearts forever. - MCHS Class of 92
Tim and Jim Landon
February 28, 2008
As we read through these heartfelt and wonderful remembrances of Mark by his friends and students, it brings back a flood of memories from when we knew Mark as a younger man. Although we (regretfully) did not stay in close contact with Mark after he embarked on his teaching career, so many things we read remind us of what a great friend we had growing up with Mark in Humboldt, Tennessee. We had the honor of playing in a local band with Mark, and we marveled at his ability to pick up multiple instruments and play them almost effortlessly. His energy, exuberance, and quick laugh will be remembered by us always. When we read the remarks of his students and friends in this guest book, it makes us proud to know that Mark Collins was a friend of ours, and as many of you can attest, you will never find a friend more loyal and loving than Mark Collins. Rest in Peace, Mark.
Denny Thomas
February 28, 2008
Collins Family,
You all have my deepest sympathy.
I had only known Mark since he'd been at Arlington, but he was always a wonderful person to work with. Whether it was announcing our marching contest or just recording the band so the director could hear how they sounded, Mark was always willing to lend a hand for the band. Arlington High School has lost a giant of a man and a true friend.
May God grant all of us the peace that only He can provide at a time like this.
Denny, Pat, Bud and Katie Thomas
Tonya Hart
February 28, 2008
My prayers go out to Mr. Collins family. Before Mr. Collins I would have never got on or stage but he inspired me and I conquered my fear. I had the pleasure of being in his class 4 years at MCHS.You will be missed.
Jami Harris (Wendel)
February 28, 2008
I was a student of Mr. Collins from 94-97 at MCHS. He was absolutely my all time favorite teacher and I was so sad to find out that he has left so early in his life. I have wonderful memories of him from speech class my Freshman yr and play production my Sophmore and Junior yr. I will always hold those memories close to my heart! I will miss you Mr. Collins!
Heather Orozco
February 28, 2008
Collins family,
My thoughts and prayers go to you all during this time. What a wonderful man, I know he will be missed by many. God has a special place for him and one day, we will all see him again. I will miss that unique voice that made me laugh so many times.
Heather, Stefen and Brianna Orozco
Celeste Menne- Daugherty
February 28, 2008
I didn't have Mr Collins as a teacher, but his presence at Millington was unmistakable. He was the teacher everyone loved. So many considered him not just a teacher, but a friend. He will be truely missed.
Leslie Reddick
February 28, 2008
I've known Mark for nearly 20 years. I've had the privilege to perform with him and watch him work. He was a cuddly brother that you could call on in times of need and to help you celebrate. My heart grieves at the loss of him.
All my thoughts and prayers to Leiza and the girls. You are my family too. Don't hesitate to call on me for anything. I love you.
Sticky
May the God of all mercy and grace, peace and comfort enfold you and lift you up in His arms.
Leslie Northam
February 28, 2008
Dear Collins family,
What a treasure your husband and father has been to all who knew him. We have been truly blessed to have the opportunity to be a small part of his life. We are thankful that God has allowed our paths to cross.
Your family will always be in our hearts and prayers.
The Northam's
Lisa Vogt
February 28, 2008
I had the priveledge to have Mark as a teacher for several classes my junior & senior years at Millington. The 4 best friendships of my life (including the one with my husband) were formed in Mark's 6th period Play Production class. How we lived for that class! Mark was always more like a friend or peer than a teacher. He even prefered for us to call him Mark to Mr. Collins. He still managed to teach us life-lessons and skills we will carry with us throughout the rest of our days. He was taken from this world much too soon.
My deepest sympathy to Mark's wife and daughters. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
Shawn Peoples
February 28, 2008
You were my one true admiration in school. Thank you for Grace and for your leadership. I pray that your family will find God's strength in this time. Through we have not seen each other in a while, you are missed.
Kimmy T.
February 27, 2008
God bless your sweet spirit and soul, brother.
Michael Parks
February 27, 2008
I did not have Mark as a classroom teacher when he was at Millington(class of 1989), but I did interact with him through my involvement with the arts. He was one of the teachers whom everyone loved and respected and he will be missed terribly. My deepest condolences to Leiza and the girls in this time of great loss. Mark touched so many lives and I know he will not be long forgotten. I am sure those who knew him all feel as if a piece of us died along with him.
Rick Hendon
February 27, 2008
Mark had such a great stature about him. He took center stage each time he spoke. I'm sure that our Lord and Savior is taking him with open arms as we type. Mark knew the true "stage" was the life we lived and what we leave behind when we are called home. I myself look forward to seeing my dear friend on that "great reunion day" in Heaven, when we all get to see Jesus face to face. so until then, Mark sing praises and put together the great production at the feet of Jesus. We miss you, but I find comfort in knowing we will meet again.
To Leiza and the girls. May God comfort you in your time of need, and remember that as Jesus said "let not your heart be troubled, you beleive in God beleive also in me. In my fathers house are many mansions, if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you,and if I go and prepare a place for you I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also. and whither I go ye know in the way ye know". Mark and Our Lord and Savior or getting the house ready for when we are all called up together in a "Twinkling of an eye". May God continue to bless your home.
Your brother/friend in Christ.
Carol Henley
February 27, 2008
I only had the privilege of working with Mr. Collins my freshman year, his last year, at MCHS (1996-97); however he always remembered me at Thespian conferences and meetings in subsequent years. He cast me in my first "real show", the Outsiders, and taught me so much about being comfortable onstage and learning to work with others. He truly cared about his students, and will be greatly missed.
Pam Barron
February 27, 2008
Your light will always shine through the lives of all of those whose hearts you touched. We are the lucky ones. You will be missed, dear friend.
Nicki
February 27, 2008
I was blessed to be his student at Millington High School from 1995 to 1998...His compassion and genuine concern for his students made an impact on our lives. He always encouraged us to do and be more than average...my condolences to his family.
We have been blessed
those of us to whom you have passed
your wisdom, laughter and love.
You challenged us to "be bold" and do our best in every endeavor.
When I thought I could not...you gave me the words "you can". I still hear them some 20 odd years later when I am afraid of a new challenge, and they still give me courage.
Sonny Eilert
February 27, 2008
I had the wonderful fortune to work with Mark Collins at Millington High, Cordova High, and Arlington High. Mark was a teacher who made a difference with kids, and he was a teacher who always did more than what was expected and more than his share of the work.
He developed in kids a love for the stage, and while demanding excellence and maximum effort, he showed students the limitless possibilities of the human spirit.
He taught them that dedication and hard work made all things possible. He also taught them about caring for each other, because Mark developed a family atmoshere in his classes and in his productions.
One of my fondest memories of Mark's work was his production of "Fiddler on the Roof" at Millington High. What a wonderful production!
Mark was a wonderful teacher and friend. He was admired, respected, and loved by so many students and fellow colleagues.
I am so thankful that his life touched mine in such a positive way for so many years.
Sonny Eilert
Gary Lewis
February 27, 2008
Leiza,
My heart goes out to you and the family. I was greatly influenced by Mark for many years, and he helped mold the person I am today, as he has many others. I learned from him both professionalisim and perserverance. Mark and yourself are part of the stories I already tell my own children. Thanks to both of you for everything. Wishing you Love , Hope, & Peace.
Cori Wadsworth
February 27, 2008
Leiza, Catherine Anne and Emily,
We wish we could be there for you at this difficult time. It would be so nice to give you all a great big hug!
I think back to all the years of knowing you and Mark.
Remember Preschool when Emily was just a baby.
I also had a flash back of Lil' Abner I couldn't believe Mark actually got Dave to be in a show, and of course, all the wonderful and not so wonderful memories at church. We always loved Mark and even though we can't be there you will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
We love you all!
Hunter Richardson
February 27, 2008
I never had him as a teacher, but I have 4th period in the Fine Arts Hall this year and was around him a lot. He was a great man that made huge contributions to the school and the county. His talent shows and productions were the best of the best. He was the best of the best.
Mrs. Janine Mashburn
February 27, 2008
Please accept my sincere sympathy on Mark's passing.
You probably know that Mark exerted a positive influence on all of his students.
I wanted to tell you about his influence on my nephew. When my nephew first met Mark he nurtured his talents in theatre. His family and friends were so pleased because he was just a natural at it.
My nephew always spoke highly of Mark. We will always be grateful for Mark's kindness as a coach and mentor. He was a true inspiration
to excellence.
May God give his family the strength needed at such a trying time.
God Bless,
stephanie augusta
February 27, 2008
I remember Mr. Collins as if it were yesterday I was auditioning for some role in some play at Cordova High School. He was funny, always had an open ear and just a great man. He was a great teacher an awesome teacher to be exact and although I am away from Tennessee this loss really touches me. I am sorry for your loss The Collins family, but just to know he will never suffer again or that he is in a much more happier place lightens my heart and hopefully lightens yours as well. Sincerely
Eileen Hinders
February 27, 2008
I met Mark for the first time in October when I asked him to help the Arlington historic group with a vignette of a Dickens play. He offered his services to the community willingly and masterfully. All of Arlington has lost a valuable person who will not be replaced in our hearts. My prayers are with all of you. Eileen Hinders, The University of Memphis
Patricia Johnson
February 27, 2008
i never had a teacher who cared as much as he did..he ALWAYS started the class off my saying "I hope yesterday was goo, and that life is treating you well."
i will truly miss him.
he was an amazing teacher and an amazing person
Becky Fly
February 27, 2008
Mark was a great guy - I will miss seeing him at forensics tournaments - he always had a smile on his face. I will be thinking about you all.
La-Tracshia Houston
February 27, 2008
I'm sorry for the loss.
My heart goes out to the Collins family,the AHS Staff and everybody that knew him well.
Silent Angel From AHS
February 27, 2008
Goodbye, Mr. Collins
Even though I never had the chance to meet you
I feel a strong connection.
You have left an amazing impression
Upon all of the students you have taught.
This school will never be the same,
As a part of it left this world with you.
You’ll never get to see your production
Though somehow you’ll get to
As a part of you is the production.
So even though you don’t know me
I’ve got something to say:
Goodnight, Mr. Collins, and have a pleasant tomorrow
For someday all of your students will be with you
And there will be one final production
One, of angelic proportions
The Silent Angel
Ashley Courson
February 27, 2008
I would like to send my deepest sympathy to the Collins Family at this heartfelt time. I was a student at Cordova High School and graduated in 2002. I too had Mr. Collins as a teacher. He was not only a teacher but a great role model for many at our school. He was involved in so much more than just the theatre.Mr. Collins will forever remain in everyone's hearts, he has impacted all that he has encountered. Thank you for sharing such a special person with us. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers through this difficult time. May God comfort and bless you.
Love,
Ashley Courson
CHS Graduate of 2002
Eumecca Long
February 27, 2008
I had the opportunity to work under Mark with the Mobile Unit, Memphis Park Commission in the 90's. He was such a joy and fun person to be around! My prayers are with you during your time of bereavement.
Kelly Metaxas
February 27, 2008
Leiza, CA and Emily,
I am truly sorry for the loss of your husband and father. I know you have the comfort of knowing that he is now with his heavenly father and you WILL see him again one day. Just know that I am here, just around the corner if I can do anything at all for you. Give up that control Leiza! :) Emily, Stephanie sends her love and prayers. Hope you are feeling better.
Suzanne Craig
February 27, 2008
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Cathy Melton
February 27, 2008
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband and father. I will be praying for you during this time of loss and sadness. Know you are in my thoughts.
John Hemphill
February 27, 2008
Mark was a true teacher who was loved and admired by his students. He kept in touch with all of them after graduation and took great pride in their success. He was one of the most talented men that I have ever met and I was privileged to have worked with him first as my director and later as a fellow actor. He has touched my life and I will remember him always.
Lisa Panigoni
February 27, 2008
I have many many fond memories of Mark. We had the privilege of living next door to Mark, Leiza, Catherine Anne and Emily for 10+ years. From playing scrabble (he always beat us with his vast vocabulary!)and other games to driving through Shelby Farms seeing "Starry Nights" together to seeing his stage/musical performances. Time spent with Mark and his family was always pure pleasure. I loved his quick wit and sense of humor, and that sparkle in his eye. Mark was truly an amazing individual. I will miss our friend.
Jeff Capps
February 27, 2008
I had the great pleasure of working with Mark through the fine arts in five years with Shelby County Schools. Mark was driven, but kind, and most importantly, selfless, as he always put his students first. He had a true passion for teaching that showed in everything he did. Mark was a tremendous talent across various disciplines. I always enjoyed the opportunity to interact and work with him--what a sweet, joyous and genuine person Mark was! I pray for peace and comfort for Mark's family during this time of unfathomable loss.
Laura Hargrave
February 27, 2008
Words are so inadequate when you try to express sympathy for a loss but especially a loss as great as "Coach." He touched and inspired so many lives and was the epitomy of a teacher. My daughter, Taylor Lindsey, was blessed to have Coach for the last 4 years and I can only hope that he knew what an inspiration he was in her life. Heaven only knows that I told him that every time I talked to him. You just couldn't help but love him and his robust zest for life and the theater.
I pray that you find comfort in knowing that Mark is absent from his earthly body but present with our Lord Jesus. Leiza, CA and Emily, thank you for sharing your husband and your dad with so many. My prayers are with you. Your extended family at AHS is here for whatever you need. Coach will be deeply missed by our entire family. He was the best of the best!!
Greg Broy
February 27, 2008
Deepest sympathies from the family of volunteers at Bartlett Community Theatre. Mark was loved and respected by those he directed on our stage, and we too will greatly miss the musical gifts he shared with us and so many others. Our sincere condolences to Leiza, their daughters and family.
Showing 1 - 59 of 59 results
Make a Donation
in Mark Collins's name
Memorial Events
for Mark Collins
Funeral services provided by:
Memphis Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133
How to support Mark's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Mark Collins's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
