October 22, 1956 – November 17, 2025
Nancy Marie McCollum, 69, passed away peacefully at home on November 17. Born the seventh of twelve children to William and Marion Mescall, Nancy grew up in a bustling, lively home that shaped her generous spirit and her lifelong commitment to family.
“Nan” as she was known to her loved ones, lived with an open door and an open heart. Her kindness came with no expectations and no strings attached. She opened her home to anyone that needed a place to sleep and a hot, home cooked meal. She offered a helping hand wherever one was needed and enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels to the homebound. She was a hardworking woman of many talents—a good cook, a crafty creator, a skilled seamstress, and a capable handywoman who could fix just about anything.
A sharp mind made Nancy a fierce card shark, whether she was playing poker with friends or Hand and Foot, narrating every move with her classic running commentary. She learned Mahjong later in life and dove in with the same enthusiasm and skill she brought to everything she loved. Nancy was also a passionate follower of politics and world events—always informed, always ready for a good debate, and never without an opinion.
Nancy began her working career at age 16 as a waitress and upon graduation at The Catholic Witness as office staff. She moved on to build a long successful career as a computer programmer at Dauphin Deposit Bank. Her retirement included a part-time job at Giant Foods as a “personal shopper” and cashier, where she brightened the days of many with her humor and warmth. Her vacation cabin in the woods, generously shared with others, provided a fun getaway and lots of great memories. Outside of work, she cherished simple joys: reading a good book, tending to her flower gardens, watching the birds, and soaking in her beautiful view of the Susquehanna River.
Nancy’s beloved river home became a warm gathering place many. She hosted “Redstock”—an annual, weekend-long celebration where lifetime friends camped, played horseshoes and stayed up late enjoying conversation. Though she never had children of her own, she loved kids deeply and made sure every child in her life felt special.
She created “Red’s Candy Shop” for the children at family reunions, a highlight of her creativity. She dressed up as a clown for family parties and lovingly embraced her role as Aunt Nan to countless nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband Steven “Red” McCollum with whom she shared over 40 beautiful years. Their bond remained a guiding light in her life. She is survived by siblings Susan Welty (John) of Hilton Head, SC, Patricia Evans (James) of Canandaigua, NY, Stephen Mescall of Baytown, TX, Daniel Mescall (Jeanne) of Dillsburg, PA, Maryann Smith (Christopher)of Taylors, SC, Cecilia Mescall of Greenwood, SC, James Mescall of Reston, VA, and many nieces and nephews.
Nancy’s generous heart, lively spirit, and sweet presence will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to have known her. Her legacy will continue to flow, much like the river she adored.
A memorial service will be held December 13, 2025, at Neill Funeral Home, 3501 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA. The family will receive visitors from 11-12:30 PM, with a memorial service following immediately. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Central PA Food Bank or a local food bank in her memory.
