Today, the world lost an Angel . . . and Heaven gained one. Robert Earl “Buddy” McCollum passed away on January 25, 2024, at 93 years young. Buddy went by many names in his lifetime . . . Daddy, Papaw, Daddy Buddy and Dad . . . just depended on your relationship . . . but any time spent with him was full of laughter and lessons of living a life that reflected values of love, compassion and selflessness. He was all that and more, much, much more.
Buddy was born September 10, 1930 to Frank and Lola McCollum in Macon, Mississippi. Buddy grew up with a young mother and a life self taught. His love for family came after his rag-tag upbringing making him the man we all loved, admired and respected. He truly was one of a kind and will be missed by everyone that had the pleasure of his presence.
Growing up, he had a love for motorcycles, Harleys to be exact, and had one until he was 82! He also shared the same love for hunting, fishing, horses and family, which he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He will be most remembered for his love of cooking . . . the more the merrier in the kitchen was when he was the happiest. Growing up, we would sit on the counters keeping him company and learning the secrets of his art. As his children, we contribute our cooking ability to those many nights in his kitchen . . .
Buddy is preceded in death by his wife, the love of his life for 65 years, Elizabeth, whom he worked side by side for 40+ years in the dry cleaning business known as Village Cleaners. They were an unbeatable team in both family and work . . . their strengths complimenting each other daily. Together, they shared a life in Madison MS.
Also, preceded in death is Michael Christian Baggett, his beloved grandson.
Buddy is survived by his children, Robby McCollum, Cissy (Bill) Baggett, Jamie (Jone) McCollum; grandchildren, Rob (Christen) McCollum; Eran (Joe) Hamilton; Brooke Blatt; Jace (David) Athow; Katy (Andy) Bailey; Merritt McCollum. Great-grandchildren, Maison Baggett; Mia Flynt, Maddox Flynt, Asha Baggett, Easton Bailey, Elliott Bailey, Caydence McCollum, Christian McCollum, Margot Athow, Evelyn Athow and Charlotte Athow.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Blake of Ridgeland for their continuous, special care afforded our Daddy during his stay. Further, the love and attention given by his caregivers did not go unnoticed and was very much appreciated.
Visitation will be held at 10:00 on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Parkway Funeral Home, 1161 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland, MS , with service and graveside to follow. Thank you all for your prayers and sharing this special time with our family.
