Obituary of Eric David Collins

Dr. Eric David Collins was born in Garden Grove, California, on April 18, 1962, and passed in Greenwich, Connecticut, on May 28, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Born to Helene and John Collins, Eric spent most of his youth in Laurel, Maryland and graduated as Valedictorian of Laurel High School in 1980, before continuing his education at Yale University. At Yale, he explored his passion for singing and co-founded Mixed Company, an aptly named mixed gender a capella group that continues its performances today. After graduating from Yale with a degree in Economics, he spent two years teaching physics and chemistry at Tabor Academy in Massachusetts before attending the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he discovered his passion for Psychiatry.

He graduated from medical school AOA in 1990 and continued his residency and fellowship training at Columbia, completing dual fellowships in addiction and consultation-liaison psychiatry. Throughout his career he held the positions of Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Medical Director of Addiction Services at Columbia University, Physician-in-Chief of Silver Hill Hospital, and Medical Director of the New York Center for Living. His passion for patient care changed the lives of many.

Despite his love for psychiatry and the betterment of his patients, he valued his family above all. He raised his children in Darien, Connecticut, instilling intellectual curiosity and emphasizing the importance of education in them. He was an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys (to the great dismay of his fellow New Yorkers), New York Yankees, and New York Rangers. He loved collecting hockey cards, most recently ecstatic over opening a Connor Bedard rookie card with his sons. His quick wit, broad smile, unmatched wisdom, and endearing quirks will be forever remembered by those who were lucky enough to know him.

His wake will be held at Hoyt Funeral Home in New Canaan on Friday, May 31^st from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. His funeral will be held at St. Thomas More Church in Darien on Saturday, June 1^st at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Zero Prostate Cancer, or the New York Center for Living.

He is survived by the love of his life and wife, Mary, his four children Michael, Helene, Patricia, and Owen, and his large extended family of in-laws, “out-laws,” nieces, and nephews.