Brayden McKenzie Collins, a member of UAW Local 2250 since February, passed away suddenly on May 13, 2023 at 21. A Go Fund Me account has been set up to help the family with funeral expenses.
He was the cherished son of Amy McLaughlin and Jim Collins; dear brother of Benjamin; loving grandson of Susan and Donald Nighswonger, the late Benjamin McLaughlin, Doris and Jerry Collins, treasured boyfriend to Brandi Decker, lifelong friend of Grant Hennessy, and loved by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and his dog Lucy.
Brother Collins, of Chesterfield, graduated from Liberty High School and was a Private in the United States Army National Guard. He loved cars, especially his Camaro. He enjoyed driving around and going to car meets with all his friends. He loved animals, especially dogs, a passion he shared with his mom in helping foster and volunteer at shelters.
He played many sports, something he shared with his father, where he was a great teammate and had a tenacious work ethic. His sports included baseball, soccer, football, wrestling and lacrosse. He was a passionate self-taught guitar and piano player who enjoyed 70s and 80s rock music. He enjoyed fishing and taking Lucy on walks at local parks.
Brother Collins was a caring and passionate young man who touched the lives of many. He was brave and strong-willed. He would always be there for a friend and always put others before himself. He was dearly loved by his friends and family and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
“Cars are what brings us to where we go.” – Brayden Collins
A service was held May 20 at Baue Funeral Home in Cave Springs. Memorial donations may be made to the Center for Animal Rescue & Enrichment of St. Louis or to an education fund for Brayden’s girlfriend Brandi Decker with checks made payable to Edward Jones. To contribute to the Go Fund Me account, visit http://ow.ly/SlkY50Orh6V.
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