Thinking of Tom 3

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Dear Julie, You are in my thoughts a great deal. Never more so than today. I regret that I never new Tom, but I do know from this site and his friends that he is a bright soul, just as you are. Please be comforted in knowing that I'm sending you love to encircle you, courage to strengthen you and hope that you will remember this in difficult moments. You have my love as does your family and Tom's, – Leslie

I teach at a high school in South Florida, and today when I was leaving work, several students were hanging over 3000 streamers from the cafeteria ceiling with each victim's name from 9/11. Tommy's name was included. One of my students showed me his streamer and said, "We won't forget this event or your friend." Julia, I think of you so often. My thoughts are especially with you and Tom's family at this most difficult time of remembering what changed so many lives.– Lisa

Just know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. We send our love to Tom's family and to you, Julia. Hugs and kisses from your – Tennessee girls!

What can anyone say on the first anniversary of September 11th. Tom is so much on my mind, and I pray for Julia and his family to have continued strength to help them through such a difficult, sad time. You will all be on my mind and in my heart on Wednesday.– Colleenski

I did not know Tom well, but he was the type of person that you did not have to know well to know that you liked him. My thoughts are with Tom's family and close friends at this difficult time. – Sincerely, Teresa West Palm Beach, Florida

Tommy was my best friend when I was a little boy on Half Hollow Road/Fox Lane. That was before the Debbie Court days. We both grew up and lost touch,I really wish we didn't. I always thought I would run into Tommy again. I have such fond memories of Tommy and the entire Collins family. Even as a little boy Tommy left a lasting impression on my life. Mr. and Mrs. Collins, Colleen, Timmy and Jennifer you are in my thoughts and prayers– With love, Matthew

Sorry I have not written before now. I'm Donna and I work for the CFO at Fidelity Federal Bank & Trust in West Palm Beach, Fl. Tom was our Sandler O'Neill account rep. Please know how very sorry I am. I did not know Tom well, but from the pictures I have gotten a much better glimps of his life(he was a nut and a beautiful person) and I think you and him were a perfect couple. He seemed to love Florida because everytime I turned around he was here to visit my boss. I want you to know not a day goes by that I don't think of you & Tom. I wear the American flag pin on my suit every day in honor of Tom. Thanks for sharing this website, however it is unfortunate that it takes his death for me to learn about his life.
Much love and prayers to Julia and the Collins family. – Donna, Fidelity Federal

I've known Tommy since the Cirella's started dating at Ithaca- so I guess that's over 10 years. We have all been together on countless trips and various Cirella get-togethers... but as long as I've known Tommy, this is the one night I caught a brief glimpse of who he really is...To begin the story, let me back up a bit. My husband Tom and I were married over seven years ago in Pittsburgh. Tommy came to our wedding. The night of our rehearsal dinner, my mom wore her bright red "party dress" - she loves that dress and looks terrific in it. My mom was about 70 at this time. Tommy noticed her bright red dress and with his wild smile called my 70 year-old mother "fire engine" all night long. Her face lit up like a spark plug every time. I'm sure no one else at the party noticed her bright red party dress other than Tommy and maybe my dad - sorry mom! My mom had the biggest crush on Tommy ever since that night. Now, this may not seem like a big deal to you, but watching my mom feel even sassier than the bride-to-be warmed my heart and is something I will never forget. It is now July 2001 and we are in Seaside, FL for a wedding on the beach. My mom is babysitting for our 3-month-old son, Will. At the reception following the wedding we all have our numerous cocktails. The night goes on and, as usual at weddings; there is always a table that won't dance. I observe Tommy zeroing in on this table of the over 60 crowd of Aunts that will not dance. It seems to bother him. Alas, Tommy pounces and has every Aunt (and Uncle) up and dancing and having the time of their lives. I congratulate him on his achievement, we laugh, he remarks that he has the over 60 crowd taken care of, puts two seashells over his ears and dances away. It is now June, 2002 and I flash back to my wedding and ask myself... did Tommy have a strange attraction to women over 60 or did I just stumble upon a glimpse of what makes Tommy such a beautiful human being? It hits me like lightning: Tommy made sure everyone had a good time and felt special. The Aunts that haven't danced in years and the mother of the bride in her bright red dress that no one else noticed. That was his mission and he did it so effortlessly that you never even noticed - you just had a blast around him and in your own way, felt special. I had to break it to my mom that there were others in Tommy's life (like his wife Julia) and that while I'm sure she was special, there were other over 60 women that he was dancing with at the wedding. She moved on... but what I will remember most about that evening is what a gift he has and what an extraordinary human being his is. Glimpses like this are rare. Either you are not paying attention or pass it off as just being funny. This was my glimpse and this is the story I chose to share. I am so lucky to have known Tommy and spent the time I have with him. I will treasure these and other memories always. – Love, love, love, Michelle, Tom, and Will

Tommy smile and humor always bring a smile to my face. – Elizabeth

Tommy, I knew your pals and loved them very much. Want you to know that we pull everyday for the Sandler. Your wife is in a safe pair of hands with Larry Belinsky. And judging by your pictures I am sure you would be very happy to know that we are still enjoying Key Lime Pie here on earth! We care.– Anthony

Tom was one of the best men I have ever met in my life. He was one of those guys who would always have a smile on his face and put an even bigger one on your face. I had many memorable times with Tommy in the Keys and boating and he is and was truely the best. Julia and Collins family there are no words that can describe how I deeply sorry I am. Everyday I pray for all of you. Julia you are the best! Tommy taught us all a wonderful lesson. Live everyday to the fullest! – Matthew

Thank you for the privalige to get a glimpse of Tom in this amazing tribute. I was so touched to capture Tim through the wonderfully orchastrated slide show. Those guys really showed the love to us all. God Bless You Love, – Kathleen

TOM I miss you so much. We watch all the ballgames together and you inspire me to be a better person.When news of the attack is shown, Shelley picks up your picture and cries and talks to you. I'll never forget your smile in the morning or the evening. You'll live with us everyday of our lives. Julia, mean you so much to me, and sometimes I don't know what to say,but please know your feelings are the utmost important thing to all of us – Always Love Mark, Shelley

Myself and a few girlfriends will be joining Julia for Preakness weekend. I look forward to being a part of the tribute to a very special person and special friend Tommy. This will be yet one more among the many to still come..tributes to an amazing person. Julia and Tommy you are in my thoughts and prayers every day. – Maria God Bless All and thank you to Aaron and so many others who continue to make this site a special visiting place for Tommy and Julia's friends.

Dear Julia, I spoke with your mother at my office the other day and she showed me this wonderful web site of Thomas. How wonderful it must have been to share your time with this unique and special person. I can't begin to say that I know how you feel, but it's obvious in the pictures that you were truly loved by this man. I have reminders on my desk everyday of how short our lives really are. This note is just to let you know that even though I do not know you, I have prayed for you daily since I spoke with your mother. I will continue to keep you in my prayers. God Bless You. – Lorie, McMinnville, TN.

Dear Julia (that's Julie to us down South) Angie told me about this great tribute to your husband. My heart aches for you and what you have had to endure. I have asked Janice about you often and have kept you in my prayers. This memorial speaks volumes about Tommy and why another jewel has been added to Heaven. Janice should have brought you in Saturday. You,and only you, can roll my big oak trees any time. Keeping you in my prayers in Tennessee! – Mj

The slide show is the best isn't it? For four minutes I get to escape into another world that reminds me of when time was endless and jokes were plenty. Thanks for making me smile once again and leading me into that wonderful world that you now live in. Save me a spot ok? – love juls

Dear Tommy, I just read your Eulogy and I laughed and cried. I wish I had gotten to know you. I feel like I do just from hearing Julia talk about what an amazing husband you were and how truly happy the 2 of you were. What a gift to have lived a full life in to short a time. Only sole mates can be so fortunate to live life with no regret. Julia has been an tremendous strength for me and I am luck to have her as a friend. I hope you have met Bart - I think you would be friends.– Claudia

I met Tom at Ithaca through my roomate, when I was a freshman and he was a senior. The difference in our age and class never stopped him from being a friendly, nice guy to both me and my "freshman friends." Although I didn't know Tom that well, reading the eulogy and seeing the photos really made the memories of him so much more vivid. I both cried and laughed when reading it. The website is such a wonderful tribute to Tom. He was never without a smile or a joke and his obvious enthusiam for life makes the loss of Tom so tragic. I think about him often, and of course can't imagine how Julia and his family are coping. His parents must be so proud of the person they raised Tom to be, and Julia so lucky to have had such love.– Colleenski

The updates on the website are wonderful. Julia, I was in Dublin, Ireland two weeks ago, and I said a special prayer for you and Tommy at St. Patrick's. – Lisa

Julia - Never a day goes by that I don't think of you and the Collins Family. You are always in my thoughts and prayers. Please know that Tommy's memory will always be alive due to the wonderful efforts of your friends and family. I'm sending lots of love your way, Julia - Amy

Some of our fondest memories of Tom are on the infield of the Preakness Stakes (second leg of the triple crown). Although the infield was packed with roughly 75,000 intoxicated people, you could always find tommy (or shall I say hear him!) Tommy was the genius who invented the annual "Preakness Cooler Dunking Contest" The object was to have someone hold you upside down by your legs with your entire head submerged in a cooler full of ice water. He who last the longest was the winner...or was he?! Tommy would always end the event standing on the cooler with a cigar in his mouth shouting, "Go Big, or GO HOME!" Preakness is the third Saturday in May and this year we plan to make a special tribute to our dear friend tommy. Julia is planning to come and we want everyone to know that it will be a trip worth taking. God Bless All of You – Nicole & Teddy

What an incrediably moving tribute to Tommy! All the articles, pictures and the poem shout out just how much Tommy meant to sooooo many people. He and Julia lived life to the fullest and her memories they shared are truly beautiful. I love you Jules, I can't wait for our Tenn. reunion next week. – Kim

I wanted to share a special memory of Tommy-which Julia had previously shared with me. It is especially meaningful to me most recently, as I was married almost three weeks ago. Tommy and my (now) husband John were hanging out together at a party at the Tampa Super Bowl-surprisingly for a long time. Although with Tommy's personality, I shouldn't have been surprised that John was with him for so long-even though it was only the second time they had met. I came to find out later, that John was asking Tommy about married life and how it had been for Tommy. You see, John was thinking (AND thinking!) about taking that step with me for a while. Tommy went on about how awesome it was, how he couldn't remember life without Julia and how happy he was. I know their whole conversation had an impact on John-and know that Tommy was right next to Julia in our church as John and I exchanged vows three weeks ago. Just another small example of how an amazing person like Tommy spread his enthusiasm for life and love and continues to impact the lives of us all! We miss him – Dana

I could only imagine how contagious Tommy's smile and personality must have been from witnessing his wife perpetual glow on a day to day basis. Thank you for sharing his memory with all of us. It is so beautiful! – Tami

I hung out with Jen this weekend (Paddy's Day) and shared some fond memories with her about her brother. First of all, I apologized for having Tommy wear a powder blue tux to my senior prom (who does that?), I told her how he taught me how to water ski from "Top O' the Morning", how I made fun of him for putting mayo and mustard on a ham sandwich (gross), and how much fun it was when Tommy was around. Julia and Tommy must have had an wonderful marriage! She must have laughed everyday, felt special everday, had an adventure everyday, and felt truly loved everday with Tom. My heart aches for Julia and Tommy's family and friends, but how blessed they must feel to have been cherished and loved by such an awesome guy...God bless! – Dian

I am a member of the IC class of 1987. While I was not close friends with Tom we knew each others names and he always had a smile and a hello. He was clearly a fine human being then and I am sure he grew to be an even finer man. My thoughts and best wishes. – anonymous

What a wonderful tribute...This web site is beautiful and can let anyone see what a great guy Tommy was. Jen, everything you ever said about your brother came to life when I saw these pictures.– Tricia

It's unreal that six months have gone by. Tommy is still top of mind for us all and our hearts still ache to see him here with you Julia and all his loved ones. His spirit makes us all stronger as each day goes by-and also strengthens our wonderful memories. – Dana

Today is the sixth month anniversary of the tragedy that took Tommy's life and so many other innocent people. Some days it feels as though it just happened yesterday and other days it seems so long ago. I know I never had the opportunity to meet Tommy but I think of the two of you probably everyday. It seems like so much reminds me of September 11, probably because I now live in New York. Just know that you are in my thoughts and prayers, and as the sun rises so will you...to brighter and better days ahead. – Sharon

Finishing up the last minute details of tomorrow's sermon I discovered a trail about Psalm 121 which led to this website. I want to express my sincere sympathy to the COllins family and give thanks to God for Tom's life and work. I hope that the strength and hope that you need is provided by our God. There are no words for the tragedy that you have suffered. Just know that others are praying for you and care for you. Tom and your family will be remembered tomorrow during the prayer time in our worship service. God bless you all. – Rev. Mera

I read a newspaper clipping about a group in Albuquerque selling "Mercy Bands" - silver bracelets bearing the name of a victim of the 9/11 attack. I received a band marked Thomas J. Collins, WTC. I searched on the net to see if I could learn anything about this person, and found this website. Though I didn't know Thomas, I will wear his name as a remembrance and tribute to him, and to all the victims of that terrible day. My thoughts and prayers go out to Thomas's family and friends. – Kathleen

I got a braclet with Thomas J. Collins, WTC also, I wear it all the time in memory of the life that was lost that day. My heart goes out to everyone and anyone who was affected but the tragedy. – Mercy B.A.N.D

Julia and I go waaay back, I think to nursery babies at church. Although I never got to meet Tommy, I can tell by the pictures that he made her very happy. I'm glad there is a site where we can see just how special he was, and share that thought, and others, with Julia and his family. God Bless you all. – Teresa

While visiting Julia in May of 2000 I met Tommy for the first and only time. It was the week before he and Julia wed in the Bahamas. Julia couldn't wait for her three childhood friends to meet him. What a spark between those two. When you see one of your dearest friends in life light up like she did around him, you couldn't help but be happy. I know Tommy was a blessing in Julia's life and she in his. The pictures on this site are absolutely wonderful and I thank you for sharing them. God bless all of you! – Cheryl

I am a coworker of Rod's in Dallas and came to look at the site. I didn't know Tom, but after seeing this tribute, I believe he must have been a very lucky man to have so many people who loved and cared about him. My thoughts are with you.– Julia B

I am humbled to see so much of God in this family, this tribute, and the legacy that Tom has left for us all. What an accomplishment it is to be proactive during this unfortunate time of fear and grief- setting up a memorial, a website, and to be celebrating such a wonderful person. Blessed are those who have met and known Tom-- I was not as lucky as they...I am a stranger. I will not pretend to know what he was like, but I can assure you that he loves you all very much and is anxiously awaiting your reunion in heaven. Even in his death, Tom still touches the lives of many in the best way possible-- by providing the world with a model of the power every person has inside of them to lead, shape, and influence others. Myself, my family, and the entire city of Chicago will praying for Tom and the people who are most feeling his absence during this new year. – anonymous

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. This website is a great tribute to Tom. Tommy touched us all in a special way and we wish you well during this difficult time. Love, – The Blatz Family

Julia, I am a friend of Nick and Laura Johnson's in Atlanta. I saw all of the pictures of you and Tom for your wedding in the Bahamas, and I feel like I know you two! I was so incredibly sorry (and still am) to hear about your loss. What a great looking couple you two are, and I can only imagine how you feel. Best of luck to you and Tom's family. – Doreen

For two very different people we sure had fun. Thrown together, two strangers forced to share a college room. Me a sophmore and you a freshman, it was a rough start but it wasn't long before we called each other friend. The practical jokes we played on each other and the floor still make me smile. Although we haven't talked in quite a while Tracy managed to keep me up on the whole pack. Its unfortunate we get so caught up in our own lives and carrers that years slip away. I would have liked to have gotten together again. A little of your cocky harassment would be inviting. To your family Tom, and your wife I can only say our thoughts and prayers are with you. I'm sorry I wasn't their, I simply didn't know. Have faith. I'm confident we will meet again. – Jonathan

Just wanted to let you all know that although 3 months have gone by there is not a day that goes by that we don't think about you as you struggle on without Tom. Even those of us not directly touched by this tragedy are changed by it and will never forget. We hope in some very small way the love of friends and family help. – Ellin

Thank you for the fitting tribute. – Gene

The site is "priceless". What a wonderfully special tribute to Tommy. Aaron and Julia and all that were involved in the creation - you should feel so good about the tribute and how it shows every bit of the special person we knew in Tommy. Every picture reminds me why I knew Julia and Tommy would be the "perfect pair". Their energy, smiles, love for life and love for each other is like none I have ever seen before. Tommy we love you and will think of you every day. Peace to all– Maria

Thank you for creating this web site. Meredith was able to share loving memories of her uncle with the class. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.– Mrs. Walter 4th Grade Class

First of all, Julia, the website is wonderfully done. How apropos for the shining light Tom provided. His infectious smile, enduring spirit, and ability to bring optimism to the worst of fishing trips are some of my memories. The Florida Keys and the Pilot House Marina lit up when Tom and Julia were in town. Thanks to you all for assembling this outstanding website of tribute. "No man is an island."– Lisa

I love the website, Julia. Bravo! Love,– Leslie

Julia, I spoke to dean today and he told me about tommys' website. It was really nice to see this on the web and it will be saved in my favorites! Hope all is well – Orhan

This is the most touching and wonderful way to preserve his memory A friend of mine that has seen this website, passed it on to me. I must tell you how moved I am. It appeared that he was very loved and just an all- around nice guy. Always smiling, with a fantastic smile at that. I am sooooo sorry for your loss. This website has caused me to reflect on my own life and how fortunate I have been. I am no longer with my husband but I certainly understand what it feels like to make plans for the future with your soulmate and then for those dreams to not come to pass. However, God has always been a constant and consistant force in my life and he always knew that I would be alright. Cry as much as you need to. Laugh aloud as often as you can. Just remember that if you can "take it" then you can "make it"! God still and will always love you! – DuShon

Thank you to Julia and the whole Collins family for allowing Tommy to touch each of us in a special way. He continues to live with each thought, story and message we share.– Ariel

This site is truly special. Thank you for sharing your life with Tommy, and your love for him, with all of us.– Doug

This is an amazing place to go and feel a part of and remember Tommy. I only had a handful of opportunities to spend time with Tommy, yet I felt like I'd known him better and longer-both from all of Julia's great stories, and from the inviting, friendly and vibrant manner in which Tommy treated me (and obviously everyone). His energy was addictive and his smile inevitably spread to everyone around him. I feel extremely lucky to have known him!– Dana

Thank You Julia for your kind words, though I have never meet Tom, in a strange way I feel like I know him. They say a picture is worth a thousand words and when I look at all these photos of Tom, I can just imagine the stories that went with them. Stories about friendship, stories about family, stories about life, and stories about love. It has been my honor to be part of a project that is so meaningful.– Aaron

A special "thank you" to Aaron, for his unselfish dedication to creating the site in Tommy’s memory. It is a true tribute to Tommy’s life and something we can cherish. Now we can preserve a collection of thoughts, stories, and photos and share them with family and friends, as well as future generations. An additional thanks to Jean, Victor, and Chris, all who volunteered their time in working on the site. Many, many thanks!– Julia

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