Benjamin "Benny" Joseph Collins

As a child, Benny moved with his family to Matthews, North Carolina, where he attended Elizabeth Lane Elementary, Holy Trinity Middle School, Charlotte Catholic High School and CPCC. He enjoyed trying new things from Taekwondo, baseball, track, guitar, singing and loved video games. He was exploring his path in life and was employed as an inventory specialist at Old North State. He had an interest in doing voice over work-given his distinctive baritone voice.

Benny was surrounded by a big, passionate and loving family that enjoyed spending time together. Always a celebration or gathering, where food and laughter could always be found.

Benny was the youngest of (4) boys. When he was born, his eldest brother announced: “Cool, I get to be the big supreme brother!” Benny loved his brothers, and they had a special bond and their own way of communicating. Jerred, the oldest, shared Benny’s passion for video games, Shane was his guardian, mentor, always looking out for him and Jacob, was his closest ally, earliest protector, growing up so close in age. Benny didn’t have a sister by birth, he did have Jenny (Cousin), whom he loved as a sister. Jenny, enjoyed his humor and was his biggest supporter, encouraging him to pursue his goals.

Benny truly lived his life in his own unique style and left his mark on everyone around him. He was an observer and listener, always so insightful. He was always true to who he was. He had a heart full of love and shared it with the people he surrounded himself with; his family, friends, and co-workers. His brothers remember fondly all the nights and sleepovers growing up laughing and staying up until the crack of dawn telling stories and jokes. Benny always knew how to tell a good joke and put a smile on people’s faces.

Benny would lend a hand to family, friends and neighbors with house, cat, dog and yes, chicken sitting- so much laughter, memories of family jumping in to chase chickens in the rain. He would reach out for help when needed and offer a hand to anyone that needed one.

Benny was starting into adulthood, as a person of great character. His kindness and compassion were beyond his years.

Benny’s story will forever be woven with ours. We will bring his memories and joy forward with us, his easy-going nature, love of video games, baritone voice, love of animals, smart and sarcastic humor, thoughtfulness, and kindness. How honored we were to have shared- in his life, to bare witness to who he was.

He was Predeceased by his Maternal Grandmother (Patricia La Brecque), Paternal Grandmother (Doris Collins), Paternal Grandfather (John Collins), Paternal Aunt (Susan Day) and Paternal Uncle (Kevin Collins).

He is survived by his devoted parents Catherine “Cat” Collins and Terrence “Terry” Collins (Mt. Gilead, NC), Maternal Grandfather Omer LaBrecque (Syracuse, NY), his boisterous and loving Brothers: Jerred Collins (Colorado Springs, CO), Shane Collins (Matthews, NC), Jacob Collins (Charlotte, NC), his Cousin Jennifer La Brecque (Charlotte, NC), his Aunts and Uncles: Louise and Ronald Pernisi (Matthews, NC) Eileen and John Scheid (Honeoye, NY), Chistine Hall (NY), Daniel Collins (Rochester, NY), Sandy Collins (NY), Omer J. La Brecque and numerous cousins.

A drop in memorial gathering will take place on Friday, September 15, 2023 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at McEwen Funeral Service-Mint Hill Chapel, 7428 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227.

All are invited to a Celebration of Life with music, food and friendship on Saturday, September 16th, 2023 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at Sardis Swim & Racquet Club 7400 Thermal Road Charlotte, NC 28211.

Fond memories, photos and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.