Steven “Buddha” Collier was a young and talented actor who performed at Manatee Community College and the Island Players. He was also a delivery driver for Pizza Hut on State Road 70 and a Baptist. He died on December 20, 2002, in Manatee Memorial Hospital at the age of 28. But what was the cause of his death? And why is there so little information about him online? In this article, we will try to answer these questions and shed some light on his life and legacy.
A Sudden Illness
According to his obituary published by Herald Tribune, Steven Collier died of a sudden illness that he contracted on December 19, 2002. He was taken to the hospital by his mother, Dinah, who found him unconscious in his bedroom. He never regained consciousness and passed away the next day.
The obituary did not specify the nature or the source of the illness, but some online sources claim that he died of food poisoning after eating a bad pizza. However, there is no official confirmation or evidence to support this claim. It is possible that he had an allergic reaction or a pre-existing medical condition that worsened his condition.
A Passion for Acting
Steven Collier was born on March 6, 1974, in London, Ohio, and moved to Bradenton, Florida, in 1980 with his family. He attended Manatee High School and graduated in 1992. He developed a passion for acting and theater at a young age and participated in many plays and musicals.
He performed at Manatee Community College and the Island Players, a community theater group based on Anna Maria Island. He also auditioned for professional roles and appeared in commercials and TV shows. Some of his credits include “The Cape”, “Sheena”, “The Glades”, and “Burn Notice”.
He was known for his charismatic personality, his sense of humor, and his nickname “Buddha”. He earned this nickname because of his large stature and his resemblance to the religious figure. He was also a devout Baptist and attended the First Baptist Church of Bradenton.
A Loving Family
Steven Collier is survived by his mother, Dinah Collier, and his two sisters, Tiffany Cramer and Hawaii Grimes. His father, Steven Collier Sr., died in 1998. His family described him as a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend who always brought joy to their lives.
His mother said that he was her best friend and that they shared everything. She said that he was always there for her and that he helped her cope with the loss of her husband. She also said that he had a big heart and that he cared for everyone.
His sisters said that he was a protective brother who always looked after them. They said that he was fun to be around and that he made them laugh. They also said that he was a role model for their children and that he taught them how to be kind and respectful.
A Legacy Remembered
Steven Collier’s death shocked and saddened his family, friends, and fans. His funeral was held on December 26, 2002, at the Griffith-Cline Funeral Home in Bradenton. His body was then transported to Rosedale, Ohio, where he was buried next to his father.
His family and friends paid tribute to him by sharing their memories and stories about him. They also planted trees in his memory at the National Forest Foundation. They said that he will always be remembered for his smile, his voice, his talent, and his spirit.
Steven Collier’s cause of death remains a mystery to this day. But his life was a testament to his passion, his love, and his faith. He touched many lives with his presence and left behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.
