Dennis Anthony Collins, 61, of Manasquan, New Jersey, passed away on August 15, 2024, surrounded by family after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

He was born on June 13, 1963, to Dennis J. and Dolores Collins in Jersey City, NJ.

Dennis attended Christian Brothers Academy, where he played on the basketball team, before continuing his education at the University of Virginia for his undergraduate studies. He then earned his law degree from Seton Hall University.

After graduating from Seton Hall Law School in 1989, Dennis began his legal career at the firm of Gagliano, Tucci, Iadanza, and Reisner in Long Branch, NJ. In 2001, he became the founding partner of what would become Collins, Vella & Casello in Manasquan, NJ. Dennis represented numerous municipalities, schools, and Land Use Boards, but his true passion was advocating for the rights of children with special needs. He tirelessly worked to ensure that each of his young clients received the education they deserved. Dennis donated countless hours to pro bono legal representation, with a project close to his heart being his work for Allaire Community Farm, which focuses on helping special needs children and others facing mental health issues through animal therapy. Dennis was beloved by his clients for his expansive knowledge of the law, practical advice, and wonderful sense of humor.

Dennis was a dedicated family man, often found sitting in a giant “U” of beach chairs with his loved ones on Manasquan Beach. He could also be found at Leggett’s Sand Bar or sitting on his balcony, smoking a cigar and watching the waves. He was an avid golfer, especially enjoying his “friendly” competitions with his son for the Collins Cup, which he ultimately won. However, his favorite place in the world was The Soggy Dollar Bar in St. Thomas.

Dennis was preceded in death by his father, Dennis J. Collins. He is survived by his two children, Dennis W. and Rachel Collins; daughter-in-law, Nicole Collins, and future-granddaughter, Baby-Girl Collins; his mother, Dolores Collins; his sisters, Denise Laffey (Terence Laffey) and Debbie McGrath (Michael McGrath); his brother, David Collins (Jamie Collins); his former wife, Sandra Collins; and a loving family of nieces, nephews, and a great-nephew (aka the Collins Clan).

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, August 21, from 2:00-7:00 p.m. ET at Christian Brothers Academy. In true Dennis fashion, summer casual attire is requested.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to Allaire Community Farm in Wall Township, New Jersey, or the Columbia University Department of Neurology for Epilepsy research (https://www.neurology.columbia.edu/about-us/ways-give).