Charles Leroy McCollum, lovingly known as Charlie, “Chuck,” Dad, Pops, Peepaw, and Grandpa, graduated into the arms of Jesus on March 20, 2026, at the age of 85.
Charlie lived a loyal and meaningful life marked by dedication to his family, service to his country, and a legacy of love that will continue through generations.
He was born on July 21, 1940, in Eldorado, Kansas to James and Naomi McCollum. His father was killed in World War II while serving in the United States Army when Charlie was a young age of four. Following in the footsteps of his father, Charlie proudly served in the United States Army and later the National Guard. His commitment to his country was a reflection of his strength, discipline, and sense of duty.
Charlie worked various jobs in the oilfield throughout his working career, retiring from Flint Engineering after 40 years and continuing to work for other companies throughout the years. Charlie loved watching and following many sports. His favorite sports were football, basketball, and women’s tennis. He loved the Dallas Cowboys as his favorite team; despite how they played, he remained a loyal lifelong fan. Charlie loved Serena Williams, admiring her skill and strength on the tennis court. She remained his favorite athlete, although he loved her sister Venus as well. He affectionately called them the “sisters.”
Charlie also enjoyed hunting with his children and grandchildren, which provided them with countless memories they will cherish. Charlie was known for his calm, demure nature. He was polite, soft-spoken, funny, and kind to all. Charlie’s life was a testament to love, service, and family values that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
He is survived by his sons, Alan McCollum and wife Christy of Pampa, and Brian McCollum and wife Kristal of Amarillo. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Caitlin Brandenberg and husband Mason, Shelby McCollum, Megan McCollum and boyfriend Corey Harroun, Lauren McCollum, Hannah McCollum, Hope McCollum, Alyssa McCollum, along with numerous great-grandchildren who brought him great joy. He is also survived by his brother, Doug Dodge Sr. and wife Diane, whom he loved dearly.
Charlie was preceded in death by his father, James McCollum; his mother, Naomi Loftin Dodge; his sister, Helen McCollum; and his brothers, Melvin McCollum and Ronnie Dodge.
Charlie will be remembered for his steady presence, his love for his family, and the many lives he touched throughout his years. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His loved ones take comfort in knowing they will see him in heaven, as he accepted Jesus as his Lord. Charlie’s life was a testament to love, service, and family values that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Pampa Nursing Center for their care of Charlie in the last few years of his life.
Viewing will be held on Monday, March 23 rd from 2 to 8pm and again Tuesday, March 24 th from 9am to 8pm with family receiving guests from 6 to 8 at Winegeart Funeral Home Serenity Chapel.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Winegeart Funeral Home Serenity Chapel with Pastor Corey Searl of Evergreen Church of Bixby, Oklahoma officiating. Interment will follow immediately afterward at Memory Gardens in the mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made towards the research of Parkinson’s disease at American Parkinson Disease Association, PO Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306 in honor of Charles.
To those who would like to share sentiments of comfort and love for the family on Charles’ Book of Memories, please visit www.winegeartfuneral.com.
