Joan Sims McCollum of Decatur, Alabama passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at her home surrounded by her family. Joan was a native of the Blue Springs Community outside of Russellville, Alabama. Joan worked as a teacher, a librarian and had a love for reading that she passed to those around her. Joan was a patriot who spent much of her life working with and honoring United States Veterans.
Joan’s life was dedicated to worship of her heavenly Father and drew comfort from her walk with Jesus and days filled with near constant prayer. Joan was an active member of Beltline Church of Christ. She used her knowledge of Spanish to worship in the Hispanic service. Joan traveled with this group to Mexico on two mission trips. She loved her church and was so proud that the children called her Tia Juanita.
All who know Joan and Mike also know that they have a heart for animals.Beginning with Dodger and Chiquita, the cats they adopted when they first married, their life has been filled with sweet creatures. Their dogs, Jake and Mac, brought them much joy, and Joan’s cat, China Blue, was with her as she passed.
Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Olen Sims and Lucille Baker Sims, as well as her dear friend, Faye Hooper.
Joan is survived by her husband of fifty-two years, Mike McCollum; her sister, Sherwon Sims Frederick (Leon); cousin and best friend, Carolyn Adams Vandiver; nieces, Kelly Frederick Balentine (Steve), Lynne Frederick Greer (Will), Mary Frederick Lyndon, Joey Hooper (Jacob); and nephew Brad Vandiver. Joan is also survived by many great nieces and nephews who she adored.
Visitation will be Sunday, March 24, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. with funeral following at 3:00 p.m at Blue Springs Freewill Baptist Church located on Highway 75 in Phil Campbell, Alabama. Jack Frederick will be officiating the service. Burial will be at Blue Springs Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Brad Vandiver, Van Baker, Ralton Baker, Floyd Baker, Steve Balentine, Wayland Balentine, Derek Poole, and Logan Poole. Leon Frederick is an honorary pallbearer.
