A Manteo native and descendant of both the Freedmen’s Colony and the Pea Island lifesavers, Darrell M. Collins devoted his life to preserving and interpreting the history of Roanoke Island and the Outer Banks. He retired in 2017 after a distinguished 40-year career as Historian at Wright Brothers National Memorial with the National Park Service, Cape Hatteras Group. Widely respected for his scholarship and public interpretation, Darrell received numerous honors, including the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine.

Beyond his federal service, Darrell was an author, the owner and Aviation Historian of ALOG, LLC (A Legacy of Greatness), and a longtime Commissioner for the Town of Manteo. His leadership, deep historical knowledge, and unwavering commitment to community made him one of the region’s most beloved public historians.

Darrell passed away on Christmas Eve in 2023. His legacy continues to guide the work of the Pea Island Preservation Society, and his influence remains deeply felt across Roanoke Island, the Outer Banks, and the many communities he inspired.

Joan Collins retired from the United States Department of Agriculture after 32 years with the Food Safety and Inspection Service. Originally from Maryland, she is a descendant of the Freedmen’s Colony and the Pea Island lifesavers and became a full-time resident of Roanoke Island in 2014. Her deep family ties to the community and its history continue to shape her commitment to the Society’s mission.

A resident of the Outer Banks since 2000, Tonya Collins is the Owner/Broker of Outer Banks Dreams Realty, LLC, specializing in first-time homebuyers, investment properties, and affordable housing. She also serves as Managing Partner of ALOG, LLC (A Legacy of Greatness), the company founded by her late husband, Darrell M. Collins. Tonya brings extensive business experience, community engagement, and a deep personal connection to the Pea Island legacy to her role as Treasurer.

Born and raised in Manteo, Frank Hester is a descendant of the Freedmen’s Colony and the Pea Island lifesavers. He retired from the United States Coast Guard as a Chief Warrant Officer after 20 years of service. After living in Maryland, he returned home to Roanoke Island in 2005 and now works for the National Park Service, Cape Hatteras Group. His lifelong connection to the island and its maritime heritage informs his dedication to the Society.

Doug Stover has lived on the Outer Banks since 2000 and retired from the National Park Service after 32 years as a Park Historian and Cultural Resources Manager, serving across five national parks and three regions. An author and respected cultural resources specialist, he now consults for the United Nations and World Heritage Sites. Doug’s expertise in preservation and interpretation strengthens the Society’s historical work.

Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Coquetta Laverna C. Brooks has called Dare County home for more than 30 years and is deeply active in her community and church, Haven Creek Missionary Baptist Church. She serves as Deaconess, VBS Teacher, Vice President of the Pastor’s Aide, Vice Chair of the Women’s Ministry, President of the Welcoming Committee, and Secretary of the Order of the Eastern Star (19 years). Coquetta is also Chairperson of the Manteo Precinct and recently retired after 23 years as a Utility Billing Specialist for the Dare County Water Department. Her leadership and community service are central to the Society’s outreach.

Rear Admiral Stephen W. Rochon retired from the United States Coast Guard after 37 years of service, culminating as Commander of the Maintenance and Logistics Command Atlantic. He later served as Director of the Executive Residence and White House Chief Usher (2007–2011). Admiral Rochon played a pivotal role in securing the posthumous Gold Lifesaving Medal for Keeper Richard Etheridge and the all-African American crew of the Pea Island Lifesaving Station. His continued involvement strengthens the Society’s national connections and historical advocacy.