We Remember Our Founder Stewart Colling

It was four short years ago today that our founder, Stewart Colling, collapsed and died unexpectedly.  The loss to both his family and his law firm was and remains immeasurable.  His memory and influence upon both his family and his law firm remains equally immeasurable in the most positive sense.

Colling Gilbert Wright remains dedicated to workers rights and  the rights of all injury victims.  Stewart Colling had dedicated his entire career to helping others who had the misfortune of serious and catastrophic injuries.  He went further, by dedicating himself to all those less fortunate than him in a variety of ways, giving of his time, his knowledge and his resources to organizations like the Winter Park YMCA and the Rotary Club.  He helped countless individuals without promise of anything in return and believed in the maxim that “a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.”

Professionally Stewart was a builder. He built two law firms in two decades through his tireless work ethic and knowledge of the law.  Stewart believed in shooting for the moon because he knew that even if you miss, you will land among the stars.  He led his law firm every day to shoot for the moon in representing clients with the best of intentions and the loftiest goals.  Outside his firms, Stewart was a leader in the legal community at large and a lawyer among lawyers.  He was a role model that many strived to emulate.  Stewart was a long standing member of the Orange County Bar Association, serving as the chair of the personal injury section from 2005-2006. He was a long time member of the Florida Justice Association, serving on its Board of Directors and as Chairman of its Workers Compensation Section from 2004-2005.  He was a member of the Florida Workers Advocates from 1990 until his death, served on the Board of Directors since 1997, as its President in 2002 and its Vice President in 2001.  He was appointed by Governor Bush to the Commission on Workers Compensation Reform while serving as President of the Florida Workers Advocates.  He was a member of the executive council of the Workers Compensation Section of the Florida Bar from 2006-2008.

But mostly, Stewart was a dedicated husband, father, son, brother, and friend.  Rest in peace Stewart.  We continue to carry your torch and strive to honor your memory.