Irene Marie Collins was born on May 10^th, 1940, in Staten Island, NY.  She was one of four children who grew up in an Italian family.  Her maiden name was Beneducci.  She graduated from Curtis High School in 1958 and went to Business School in Staten Island.  She worked as an Executive Secretary in Manhattan for over five years, she had her first child Jeffrey in 1963 then returned to work for the next two years.  She then had her second son Jay in1966, she stayed home to raise both boys.  While raising her sons she worked part-time at the Catholic Home Bureau in Staten Island.  They cared for foster children that were removed from homes through unfortunate circumstances. Her husband Charles retired in 1973, and the family moved to Florida.  Irene started working in Pasco County Schools in July 1975 at Hudson High School.  Their two sons’ involvement in sports and school functions kept the family very busy.  Both boys were graduates of St. Leo University with Education degrees.  Irene’s life revolved around helping students in the education system, supporting her family and friends and the rest is history.  Irene is survived by her son, Jay, daughters-in-law Kristen & Julie, siblings Shirley and Joseph and grandchildren Justin, Dakota, Lance, Kristopher and Joseph.  Services will be held on January 3^rd 11:00 at St. Michaels Church followed by a Celebration of Life at Olive Garden.