Theodore "Ted" Collins

Theodore Collins, known by all his loved ones as “Ted” passed suddenly but peacefully on Friday, February 17th of natural causes.  

Ted was born into a loving family to John and Joanne Collins where he and his brothers John and Greg shared many adventures growing up in the idyllic Waban neighborhood of Newton.  Many days were spent riding bikes, making forts and playing group sports, often arranged by his devoted father who raised his sons and mentored many of their friends throughout their childhood.

Early on, Ted’s mom recognized his musical talent, enrolled him in piano lessons, and encouraged what became his life-long love of music.  His grandmother, lovingly referred to as “Nanna”, was an accomplished pianist who enjoyed having Ted practice on her piano.  She got him his first record player where Ted discovered the Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin and soon aspired to be a rock guitarist.

An avid music student, he learned to play guitar, bass and continued playing keyboards throughout his life.  His friend’s greatest memories of “Ted Zeppelin” include his extravagant rock antics, playing with many bands at venues in the Boston area. 

Recently, Ted had the honor to play with the Figgs, and the pleasure of recording many tracks with them on their past few released records. He also rediscovered his love for Grateful Dead music, and had a wonderful opportunity to play with the band Ship of the Sun where he truly expressed himself musically.

Ted attended Suffolk University Law School and was a member of the Massachusetts Bar Association.  He enjoyed contract law, and was proud to follow in the footsteps of his father, who practiced law his entire life.

Ted married the love of his life, Jennifer Collins, in 2000 surrounded by their vast community of friends and family.  They moved to Newburyport in 2009 and felt an immediate connection to their newfound home and community.  Ted and Jennifer spent the last few years of his life enjoying the beauty of the area, the kindness of their neighbors and the peace of the life they had created, which afforded him to grow into his most authentic self.

Ted is survived by his wife Jennifer Collins, his parents John and Joanne Collins, his brothers John Collins and Greg Collins, his extended Collins family who were close and loving, and a wonderful community of friends who loved Ted for his kind spirit.

Ted will be remembered during a wake being held at Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home on 193 High Street in Newburyport MA on Sunday, February 26, from 1-5 PM. Parking available behind the Funeral Home. A service to celebrate his life will be held on February 27 at 10 AM at the Belleville Congregational Church on 300 High Street, Newburyport MA. Burial will follow at Oakhill Cemetery in Newburyport.

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