Gregory G. Collins’ legacy lives on, decades after death

SOMERSET COUNTY, Md.- It’s been decades since Somerset County corrections officer Gregory G. Collins lost his life, but today, community members came together to ensure his legacy lives on.

On June 4th, 2001, Collins was ambushed and killed on his way home from work. 22 years after his tragic death, retired assistant warden Ronnie Dryden is happy to finally get closure.

“It’s been a long time coming,” Dryden said. “This happened in 2001 and the case went cold for 18 years and now we’re at 22 years, and I’m pleased to have this ceremony.”

An event was held at the Eastern Correctional Institutions Pavilion, where locals gathered to celebrate Collins’ life and unveil a dedicated memorial sign on route 13. Lena Willams, Collins’ widow, said the memorial has been overdue.

“It’s very well deserved and I’m so glad that he will be remembered,” Williams said. “I know he’s always been remembered by the division of corrections, but now he’ll never be forgotten with this highway sign.”

“Greg Collins is finally getting the recognition he deserves,” Dryden added.

Collins’ daughter, Sydney Collins, said the new sign will help commemorate her late father.

“I was only five months old when all this happened,” Collins said. “I didn’t really know him, I’ve just heard stories, and being able to be reminded every time I go past this sign, it really means a lot to me.”