Christopher was born in Blacksburg, VA and raised in Christiansburg, VA. During his high school years, Chris ran track and played basketball. He graduated from Christiansburg High in 1992 and welcomed his first son Donte' into the world in 1993.

In 1998, Chris proudly joined the United States Navy as an Aviation Ordnanceman, under the buddy system with his childhood best friend, David Barnes. He was initially stationed in Norfolk, VA onboard USS George Washington. He was then transferred to NAS Lemoore in 2002 where he severed multiple Commands such as FRC West, VFA-147, CNATTU, and his final tour with VFA-14 where he retired as an Aviation Ordnanceman, Petty Officer First Class. During his 20-year career, he completed 6 deployments to both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans onboard multiple Aircraft Carriers in support of many operations. His achievements include the following: Air Warfare Specialist, multiple Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, Good Conduct Awards, and multiple Unit Citations as well as qualifying as a Master Training Specialist. Petty Officer Collins was an outstanding sailor, close friend, and great mentor to many sailors even after his retirement.

In 1999 he married the love of his life, Carolyn Westbrook Collins. Their son, Che'Den, was born in 2002, and daughter, Chenel, in 2007. He loved his family unconditionally, and no sacrifice was too great for him to bear. He was a dedicated husband and father who treasured his children and embraced every moment with them. He was always there to support them in all of their endeavors. Chris spent many years coaching Che'Den in basketball and mentoring him in soccer. He never missed a game that he was not deployed for. He also fully supported Chenel in her many endeavors which recently include Competitive Cheer and her interest in professional nail styling. He would give anything to see a smile on their faces. Chris also won over Carolyn's mother, Eliza Britton's, heart with the way he cared for his family. He considered Eliza as a mother of his own.

Survivors include Carolyn, his wife of 20 years; sons Donte & Che'Den Collins; daughter Chenel Collins, his parents Charles and Maxine Collins; his mother Eliza Britton; his brother John Collins; Sisters-in-law Lorie Myers, Jasmin Soto, Kimberly Myer, and Amy Fort; Brother-in-Law Donald Westbrook; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and relatives.

In lieu of sending flowers, we are requesting donations to his Children. Che'Den is currently enrolled at the College of the Sequoias, with classes starting this fall. Chenel is pursuing Competitive Cheer. Please make deposits to Carolyn Collins NFCU 3157267.