Christopher Drew Collins
March 31, 1988 ~ July 09, 2026
Christopher Drew Collins passed away suddenly on July 9, 2026, at the age of 38. Though his life was far too short, the impact he made on those who knew him—and on the countless lives he helped heal—will endure for generations.
Chris dedicated his life to helping others find hope, healing, and recovery. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), EMDR-certified clinician, and Master Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP), he built a career centered on compassion, clinical excellence, and the unwavering belief that healing was possible for everyone. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, addiction, and relational healing, he earned the trust and admiration of clients, colleagues, and fellow professionals throughout his career. He was known for his extraordinary dedication to his clients and their families, his ability to truly listen, and his calm, reassuring presence during life’s most difficult moments.
Chris grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia, where he spent his childhood excelling as a swimmer and diver. He also discovered a lifelong love of music, studying classical piano from an early age under the guidance of Ms. Henora Furtato. She once remarked that while someone could be taught to play music, they could not be taught to make others feel the music. Chris possessed that rare gift. Blessed with the ability to play by ear, Ms. Furtato often refused to perform new pieces for him because she wanted him to learn the composer’s interpretation—not immediately transform it into his own. Strong-willed and deeply creative, Chris soon began composing his own music, much to the delight of his family. During high school, he expanded his love of the arts by performing with the school band and appearing in theatrical productions.
After beginning his college education at Temple University, Chris relocated to Florida, where he received a scholarship from the Mark Garwood Foundation to attend Florida Atlantic University. There, he earned his Bachelor of Social Work before continuing on to receive his Master of Social Work with honors. During one of his graduate internships at Treasure Coast Hospice, Chris conducted home visits for hospice patients and their families. He often reflected on the profound strength he witnessed in those facing the end of life, saying he felt honored to help ease their suffering while also supporting their loved ones through the process of facing loss.
Throughout his life, Chris possessed a remarkable sense of humor that could dissolve tension with a perfectly timed observation or unforgettable one-liner. His wit was insightful, unexpected, and often left his family laughing through tears. Chris found joy in good food, traveling, going to Delray Beach to watch the sunrise, meaningful conversation, and the beauty of everyday life.
More than anything, however, Chris loved deeply. He cherished his family, his friends, and the relationships that shaped him into the man he became. In Chris’ own words, “The people who help you the most are the ones who are willing to sit with you without judgment.” He valued the beautiful connection that he had with Daria Piccone, Rose Salzler, Lorraine Deamicis, and Gara Steinfeld who were friends that became his family.
Chris is survived by his father, Chris; his mother, Sue; his sister, Laura Rose; his brother-in-law, Alex; and his beloved niece, Julia Rose, who adored him and was deeply adored by her Uncle Chris. His family finds comfort in believing that Chris continues to watch over them with the same love and compassion that defined his life.
A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, in the Atrium at 14000 Military Trail, Delray Beach, Florida from 6:30 to 8:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Mark Garwood Foundation, an organization that provides scholarships for people in recovery to start or continue their education, and Treasure Coast Hospice, a non-profit organization providing end-of-life care and grief support. Both organizations were dear to Christopher, and we believe supporting them will honor his lifelong commitment to helping others.
Though Christopher’s life ended far too soon, the kindness he extended, the hope he inspired, and the love he gave so freely remain his lasting legacy. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Click to donate to the Mark Garwood Foundation Phoenix Scholarship
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Ellie Aviles - Coworker and friend
July 13, 2026, 4:21 pm
Dear family and friends of Chris Collins,
I’m so sorry for your loss. I didn’t know Chris for long, but in the time that I did, he made a difference in my life in a way I really needed. He was a very special person and he will be greatly missed.
With deepest sympathy,
-Ellie Aviles
Julie Turk - My sons therapist
July 13, 2026, 7:04 pm
My family’s hearts are broken. Chris was an amazing person. Professional, kind and caring person. I don’t know how we can ever find someone like him. Love, thoughts and prayers to all those who knew and loved him
Luzzie - Friend and Client
July 13, 2026, 8:44 pm
I am completely heartbroken and still in shock. I never imagined I would be writing these words. Chris was more than just my therapist—he was someone who truly changed my life. During some of my darkest and most difficult moments, he never gave up on me. He listened without judgment, believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself, and reminded me that healing was possible even when I couldn’t see it.
Chris had a rare gift. He didn’t just hear what people were saying—he understood what they were feeling. He had an incredible ability to make you feel safe, valued, and genuinely cared for. Every session left me with hope, strength, and the belief that I could keep moving forward one step at a time. His compassion, patience, wisdom, and kindness were unlike anything I had ever experienced.
The impact he had on my life cannot be measured. There are decisions I make today, ways I respond to challenges, and hope I continue to hold onto because of what he taught me. His words continue to echo in my mind, encouraging me to keep fighting, to never give up, and to remember that recovery is possible. Even though he is no longer physically here, his influence will continue to live on in the lives of so many people he helped—including mine.
Reading through all the beautiful memories and seeing how many lives he touched only confirms what I already knew: Chris was one of those rare human beings who made the world a better place simply by being in it. His kindness created ripple effects that will continue for generations. Every person he helped has the opportunity to pass that hope and compassion on to someone else. That is an extraordinary legacy.
To Chris’s family and loved ones, please know that his work mattered more than words can express. He wasn’t just helping people through difficult times—he was giving people their lives back. I am one of countless people who will always carry deep gratitude for the gift of knowing him. Thank you for sharing him with the world.
Chris, thank you for believing in me, for seeing potential in me when I couldn’t see it in myself, and for walking beside me through some of life’s hardest moments. I will never forget your kindness, your wisdom, your compassion, and your unwavering belief that healing was possible. I promise to honor your memory by continuing to grow, to help others, and to live the lessons you taught me. You changed my life forever, and I will carry your influence with me for the rest of my life.
Rest in peace, Chris. Your life was far too short, but your impact will last forever. May your memory forever be a blessing. You will never be forgotten. ❤️
Argon Agency - Colleagues
July 14, 2026, 4:16 am
To Chris’ family, friends, and all who loved him, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. We hope you find comfort in knowing that his heart, compassion, and dedication touched countless lives, and that his legacy will continue through every person he helped (and those who were inspired by him).
Though we only worked with Chris briefly his energy left a mark on the whole team. We are crushed by this news and know the world lost someone incredible. He was brilliant, insightful and so kind.
Fran - Friend
July 14, 2026, 5:37 pm
My heart goes out to Christopher’s family and friends for the loss of a wonderful young man. I became very fond of Christopher and always held him in high regard for his love of family and friends. His accomplishments during his short time here with us was many. Although we here will miss him tremendously, I know he is with God and will be watching over all of you.