Amy Berdena Collins

Amy Berdena Collins, age 48, of Middletown passed away unexpectedly at her home on May 14, 2023. Amy was born on December 17, 1974 in Middletown, Connecticut. Her family moved to Higganum in July, 1978. Amy attended Burr Elementary School and graduated from Haddam-Killingworth High School in 1993. Amy was extremely precocious and a very talented musician. She played the oboe and flute and could pick up any instrument and play it. While in High School, she was part of a musical collaboration with students from the United States and Canada. With this group she toured many countries throughout Europe playing her oboe at concerts in many cities. After Amy graduated from High School she attended Wanger College on Staten Island, New York and graduated in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. During a trip to Sweden Amy collaborated with her dear friends Peter and Fredrik who recorded and produced her album entitled Escorted from the Royal Castle, featuring her original songs. Some of her songs were played on the airwaves in Sweden. Amy is survived by her wife, Brianna Skowera of Middletown, her father and mother, Arthur E. Collins Jr and Barbara M. (Featro) Collins of Higganum, her sister Joy E. Collins of Higganum, and her sister Sara A. Collins and her Finance Todd Wetmore of Connecticut. Amy also had many other relatives and friends who meant a lot to her. Nadia and David recently came into her life, and she shared many happy moments with them. Amy suffered for many years with mental health problems. She was very public about her struggles, which ultimately led to her suicide. She said recently that it was a victory that she made it 48 years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Middlesex Behavioral Health Crescent Center, so that others can receive help. Donations may be made by check to “Middlesex Health - The Crescent Center” c/o Middlesex Health, Office of Philanthropy, 28 Crescent Street, Middletown, CT 06457 or online at middlesexhealth.org/donate. We will be remembering and celebrating Amy’s life on Monday, May 29th at the Polish Falcons of America in Middletown (144 Prout Hill Road, Middletown, CT 06457). A Remembrance Service and Contemplative Reflection will be held at the gazebo at 12:00 p.m., and a Celebration of Amy’s Life will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the Grove. Everyone is invited to attend. More information on services and remembrances can be found at the Biega Funeral Home website. To share memories or express condolences online, please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com. Amy enriched the lives of her friends and family. To all those who knew her, thank you for the light you brought to Amy’s life. And let us remember the light she brought to ours. Amy, thank you for being with us for over 48 years and sharing your life with us.