George Edd McCollum

George Edd McCollum, age 89, of Athens TN passed away peacefully with his family by his side on December 2, 2025. George, a lifelong Tennessean, was born on February 21, 1936, in Kingston, TN to the late Edgar Vernon McCollum and Bernice Mae Frye McCollum. He was preceded in death by brother Herschel (Bernice) McCollum, and sister Hesta Lena (Joe) Bailey. George is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 69 years, Velma Stone McCollum (of Pine Orchard Community, TN); two sons, Darris (Donna) McCollum, Ann Arbor, MI, and Darwin (Donna Bea) McCollum, Smyrna, TN; grandchildren, Katherine McCollum, Mercedes (Tyler) Woody, and Griffin (Melissa) McCollum; great grandchildren, Xander Doyen, Charlize Doyen, Deacon McCollum, Phoenix McCollum, and Celeste McCollum; nephews, David McCollum, Douglas McCollum, Michael McCollum, Bennett Bailey, and niece Susan McCollum-Symonds; cousins, J. Lynn Frye, Florence Higdon, and Geraldine Lasater, Helen Phillips.

George graduated from Rockwood High School in Rockwood, TN, attended the University of Tennessee, and was a diehard Volunteer fan all his life. George began his career in 1959 at Bowater Southern Paper Corporation in Calhoun, TN and remained throughout his 37-year career, and retired in finishing and shipping.

In keeping with his belief in service to country and community, George served honorably in the Tennessee Air National Guard for 37 years and achieved Senior Master Sergeant rank in the 154th refueling division McGee Tyson Airbase.

George became a renowned White Oak Basket maker, keeping the historic Appalachian tradition alive and delighting many across the country with his artistic demonstrations and unique and beautiful creations. At one time a basket adorned the White House Christmas Tree.

George was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Athens, TN where he was an active member.

George was very proud of his family. He and Velma built a strong family foundation for their children that endures to this day. He had a special relationship with his 3 beloved grandchildren and his great grandchildren. He set the example and will be remembered for his kindness, caring, faith, service to country, and always putting family first.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, from 12:00-1:45 pm ET at Evans Mortuary in Rockwood, TN. A celebration of life service will follow, beginning at 1:45 pm ET. Graveside and interment services will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Rockwood with full military honors presented by the Roane County Military Memorial Honor Guard and the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard. 

Active Pallbearers will be his sons and grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rockwood High School Alumni football club. Complete Obituary with Evans Mortuary, Rockwood, TN.