SMYRNA - David M. Collins passed away on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2013 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Dover, the son of Ruth S. Collins and the late Clarence S. Collins Jr. He was a 1975 graduate of Smyrna High School, and had been a co-owner of Slaughters, Inc. of Smyrna for 35 years until his retirement. He later was employed by Del DOT for six years until the time of his illness. David was a 41 year life member of Citizens Hose Co., Smyrna, where he served as historian, fire recorder, company photographer, and Lieutenant. In addition to being an avid photographer, he enjoyed his Harley Davidson, NASCAR, picture-framing, and listening to rock and country music. He loved the fire company, especially the Citizens Hose trip to Ireland and his many travels with Kathy. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his four children, Gloria (Michael) Cohen, Michael Collins, Roberta (G.R.) Myers, and Meggan (Kenny) Rife; a brother, Clarence "Butch" (Terri) Collins, III; a sister, Barbara (Russell) Greene; 12 grandchildren, Tre, Scotty, Adriana, Alexis, Hannah, Haylee, Gemma, Geoffrey, Stella, Mackenzie, Madison, and Makayla; a nephew, Adam Greene; a niece, Sharon Niner; and his former wives, Kathy Collins and Anna Collins Latchum. Services will be held 11 a.m. on Friday Oct. 11, 2013 at Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home, 123 W. Commerce St., Smyrna, where friends may call Thursday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. Burial will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Smyrna. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Citizens Hose Co., PO Box 97, Smyrna, DE 19977. To send a condolence letter, visit
www.matthewsbryson.com. Arrangements are by Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Smyrna.