Charles Thomas Collins

Charles Thomas "Tommy" Collins July 29, 1950 - November 27, 2025
Charles Thomas "Tommy" Collins, 75, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with ALS. A devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and faithful servant of God, Tommy's life was marked by love, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to others.
Born on July 29, 1950, he was the son of Charles Grover Collins and Betty Jo Abbott (Annie Belle Bowden). He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Steve Collins (Sue); his sisters, Cindy Peele and Pam Larry; his step-brother, Larry Leonard; and his children Michael Collins, Daniel Collins, and Lorianne Collins. Tommy is survived by his loving wife, Donna Jean Collins (Howard); his children Anthony Collins (Jacqueline), Jennifer Anderson (Donald), Eddie Collins, and Jessica Denham (Stephen); his sisters Joyce Sobey and Norma Marshpund; 22 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
Tommy was a proud graduate of Cradock High School in Portsmouth, VA, Class of 1968, and he was active in their alumni events. Until his illness, Tommy was a member of Fairview Heights Baptist Church for more than 30 years where he held active roles in/as Assistant Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School Teacher, Children & Youth Ministry, and Choir & Praise & Worship Team. He was employed in the electrical supply industry for most of his workforce career. He served more than 33 years with Eck Supply Company/Capital Electric as Branch Manager and/or Area Manager.
His family was his greatest joy, and he was deeply proud of each generation he helped guide and shape. A man of strong faith, Tommy lived his life in service to God and others. He shared his time and talents through his church, his work, and his devotion to his family and community. A true fan of baseball, Tommy was a lifelong New York Yankees supporter. The game was more than a pastime for him; it was a passion. He spent much of his life playing and coaching baseball, and he especially cherished the years he spent coaching his daughter Jessica in soccer throughout most of her athletic career.
Tommy leaves behind a legacy of kindness, patience, humor, and unwavering faith. He was loved by many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A service to celebrate Tommy's life will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at 1 P.M at Graham Funeral Home, 1112 Kempsville Road, Chesapeake. Following the service, the family invites you to join them for continued fellowship in the reception center. To view the service and leave a condolence to the family please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers the family request donations to VCU Fund for ALS and Neuromuscular Disorders and to DC/MD/VA ALS Association or to CHKD in Tommy's honor.