Martha E. McCollum

Martha E. McCollum, age 93 of Paris, TN, died Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at her residence.

She was a homemaker and longtime member of First United Methodist Church in Paris.  Martha played a big part in raising her nieces & nephews, who looked to her as more of a second mother than merely an aunt.  She enjoyed music, especially country music, and enjoyed playing cards, especially the game of Rook.  Martha loved flowers, the color yellow, and watching people dance.  She was an animal lover, especially of her beloved dogs.   Those who knew her best said that Martha loved people, always looking for the good in everyone, and always went out of her way to speak an encouraging word to those around her. 

Martha was born June 8, 1930, in Greenback, TN, to the late Samuel Eliott McConnell and the late Mamie Stella Lewis McConnell.

She was married January 7, 1948, to Fred E. McCollum, who preceded her in death on February 10, 1998.

She is survived by her daughter, Connie McCollum (Glen) Garrett of Paris, TN; two grandchildren, Kevin (Emilee) Garrett of Memphis, TN, and Emily Garrett (Clay) Scanlon of St. Louis, MO; five great grandchildren, Caroline Garrett, Helen Garrett, Peter Garrett, Kanen Scanlon, and Maya Scanlon; family mini-Schnauzer, Bailey; numerous nieces & nephews; and caregivers, Diane Parrish, Susie Gee, Tressa Prince, and Kristi Thompson.

In addition to her parents & husband, she was also preceded in death by three sisters; six brothers; and beloved family dog, Rudy.

Arrangements are being handled by Ridgeway Funeral Home, 201 Dunlap Street/PO Box 788, Paris, TN 38242.  Visitation will be Tuesday, May 7, 2024, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Ridgeway Funeral Home, and continue Wednesday, May 8, 2024, from 10:00 am – 11:00 am.  The funeral service will be Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 11:00 am at Ridgeway Funeral Home, with Joy Weathersbee officiating, and Patsy Henry and Roy Shields sharing personal remarks. 

Serving as pallbearers will be Kevin Garrett, Clay Scanlon, David McConnell, Joe McConnell, Bob Rowcliffe, and Roy Henry.   Named as honorary pallbearers are Patsy Henry and A.J. “Junny” Pearson, Sr.

Burial will be in Hillcrest Memorial Park in Paris, TN.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, PO Box 25, Paris, TN 28242.