Photo credit: Peterson Grosvenor

 is a writer and artist. She has a master’s degree in English from the University of Connecticut. Collins is the founder, head writer and editor of True Reflections.

Diane's interest in obituaries started when she was a child reading the newspaper with her great-grandmother, who checked the obituary section daily. When she lived in Connecticut she was called on by her church community to compose reflections on deceased members. Her ability to impart a lively accurate narrative resulted in her being sought out for these moments.

"Each life is valuable, important and interesting,” Collins says, “and I consider it an honor and fun preserving memories, whether long or short, that seem brief as summer lightning.”

She is married and lives with her husband and young son in Brooklyn, New York.

Diane Collins is currently an Adjunct Professor of English at Hudson Valley Community College and a member of the International Association of Obituarists.

True Reflections also provides personal narratives for such celebrations for milestone birthdays, anniversaries or retirements.

We will gather information that will result in an original, fresh, and tailor-made memento that will enhance the special occasion. The person of honor will know the distinct place they hold in the hearts of friends and family.

is a commemorative writing service that provides custom narrative obituaries and tributes.

will work with you to highlight moments and habits in your loved one’s life that embrace their personality. We avoid cliches. Instead, the moments, magic and memories of your loved one’s life are emphasized to capture a true reflection of their spirit.

A lively final life story recorded with respect, dignity and integrity is a keepsake that will comfort, inform and enlighten your family for generations to come.

We gather your initial information by telephone, fax, e-mail and postal mail. First, we provide you with a detailed questionnaire that requests your loved one’s biographical information.

A telephone interview will then be conducted; at that time you can provide any personal details you wish. You will be prompted with questions that will help to recall important turning points or satisfying surprises about the way your loved one’s life unfolded.

We will send a first draft to make sure we are taking the right direction. You will continue to receive revisions until the piece meets your satisfaction. You will then receive the final copy.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of reading many of Diane's writings. She has always had a unique way of putting feelings and sincerity in all of her writings, whether it's for herself or others. Recently, when my mother died, I asked her to write something about my mother that I could include in the program. After reading it, many of my family members were brought to tears because of the touching way Diane expressed herself and the love she projected in her writing.

—Greta K., Bloomfield, CT

Recently, Diane wrote a memoir for the family of a very dear friend of mine who passed away. Diane’s talent for writing touched the diverse emotions of the family and friends and brought comfort to all. Diane skillfully captured the serious and humorous sides of the deceased’s character. She was able to sift through the complexity of memories that we shared and crafted expressions that we will cherish as the legacy of the very special lady that we loved. 

—Emma C. Lynchburg, VA

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