NEWPORT NEWS — Patricia Ann McCollum, 75, daughter of the late Calvin and Vera Thomas, was born Dec. 30, 1945, in Bennettsville, S.C., and entered into eternal rest at 3:10 p.m., Thursday, July 15, 2021, at her home.
Patricia graduated from Upchurch High School. She went on to further her education and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Fayetteville State University. After 23 years of service, she retired from working civil service in the Military Travel Pay Department at Fort Eustis. After retiring, Patricia enjoyed walking long distances, bowling, gardening and playing with her beloved Yorkie, Bella.
On Aug. 8, 1970, Patricia married David L. McCollum. This union was blessed with a son and daughter, Lin and Pamela.
In 1990, Patricia joined Colossian Baptist Church and served on the Usher Board for several years before becoming a deaconess. On Dec. 18, 2005, she was ordained as a deaconess, an office she proudly served until her death. Patricia was a dedicated and faithful member of her Sunday school class. She loved studying the bible and enjoyed the interaction of members within her class. She was also a member of the Order of Eastern Star, alongside her husband David, who was a member of the Masonic Lodge Fraternal Organization.
Preceding Patricia in death were her parents, Calvin and Vera Thomas; husband, David L. McCollum; and three brothers, David Thomas (Lucille), Curtis Thomas (Anne) and Leroy Thomas (Helen).
Patricia is survived by her two children, Lin McCollum (Connie) and Pamela McCollum; three grandchildren, Lin T. McCollum (Iltani), Bomani McCollum (Kristin) and Shani McCollum; two great-grandchildren, Yuki McCollum and Reiko McCollum; four sisters, Dorethea Stokes (Johnny), Della Mae Robinson (James), Genetta Robinson (Vie Edward) and Mary Pooler; five brothers, Ernest Thomas, Bill Thomas (Dot), Paul Thomas, Charles Thomas (Tracy) and Andrew Thomas; one sister-in-law, Irma N. Russ; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
She will be sorely missed by all those who knew and loved her, but we find comfort in the knowledge that she is with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Mrs. McCollum may be viewed at 9 a.m., Friday, July 23, with a funeral service beginning at 11 a.m., at Colossian Baptist Church. Facial coverings and social distancing are recommended. Livestreaming will be available at the beginning of the service.
Share online condolences with the family at Whiting’s Funeral Home.
