Marybeth Collins, devoted mother, wife and friend, beloved member of the Port Jefferson community, former Port Jefferson Board of Education member, recently entered hospice after a long battle with metastatic breast cancer. In this community, Marybeth was widely recognized as that person you want on ‘your team.’ She had a sharp intellect, a quick wit and was a strong advocate for enriched academic programs not only for her three children, Rachel 18, and 16-year-old twins, Jack and Joey, but for all the children of the Port Jefferson community and beyond. Despite the ravages of her illness, Marybeth could be found supporting her children at every sporting event, school concert and community program. She epitomized the best of our community and will be sorely missed in many ways by so many people.

With great strength and grace, Marybeth endured multiple rounds of costly, experimental cancer treatments. Sadly, she has come to the end of the battle. As her husband and children struggle to cope with the ultimate loss of their mother and wife, they face considerable financial challenges from medical costs and funeral expenses.

Because they would never ask for help themselves, we are reaching out to you, our family, friends, classmates, co-workers, and our community at large in the hopes that you can find it in your hearts to help Marybeth's family — Joe, Rachel, Jack and Joey.

The Port Jefferson community has repeatedly demonstrated the compassionate and generous spirit that makes it unique. Thank you, on behalf of the Collins family, for any support that you can provide.