Chattanooga Community Mourns the Loss of Wanda McCollum

News Summary

The Chattanooga community is grieving as they say goodbye to Wanda Edwina McCollum, who passed away at the age of 75. Known for her kindness and dedication, Wanda leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and a rich engagement with her local community. A celebration of her life will be held on April 15, 2025.

Chattanooga Says Goodbye to Beloved Local, Wanda Edwina McCollum

Chattanooga, Tennessee, is heartbroken as the community mourns the loss of Wanda Edwina McCollum, who passed away at the age of 75 on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Surrounding her were her loving family, a testament to the bonds she cherished throughout her life.

A Chattanooga Native

Wanda was born right here in Chattanooga on May 8, 1949. She carried the spirit of this city with her throughout her life. A proud graduate of Red Bank High School, class of 1967, she embraced her community with open arms and a warm heart.

A Career of Caring

For many years, Wanda dedicated her skills and compassion to Fillauer Prosthetics, where she was more than an employee; she was a friend and mentor to many. Eventually, she decided to retire, but not before she had garnered a deep respect from those fortunate enough to work alongside her. Retirement was just the dawn of a new chapter—one focused on family and bringing joy to those around her.

A Passion for Family and Crafts

Outside of work, Wanda was renowned for her talents in cooking and quilting. Her love for creating beautiful quilts delighted her family for generations. Those who had the pleasure of tasting her meals or receiving a quilt know that they were wrapped in warmth, just like the love she poured into everything she did. Her culinary delights were often the highlight of family gatherings—her kitchen was truly the heart of her home.

A Life Filled with Love

Wanda and her husband, Johnny McCollum, celebrated a remarkably happy marriage of 37 years after tying the knot on September 5, 1987. Together, they created a family grounded in love and support. She was a devoted wife, a caring mother, a proud nanny, and she recently embraced the delightful title of great nanny. Her ultimate joy came from doting on her children and grandchildren—each moment spent with them was a treasure.

A Legacy of Kindness

Described as a woman with a heart of gold, Wanda was known not just for her devotion to family but her kindness towards everyone. She made it a point to lend a helping hand, a smile, or a kind word to anyone she encountered. Her faith was profound, as she was an active member of Hickory Valley Baptist Church, where she shared her love for the Lord and community. Those who met Wanda were often touched by her spirit, and her memory will shine brightly in the hearts of many.

A Cherished Memory

Wanda is survived by her beloved husband, Johnny, along with two sons, Jason (JeriAnn) and Shane Cramer. Her family legacy continues through her grandchildren, Cody (Katie) Cramer and Emma (Garrett) Wheeler, along with her adored great-grandchildren Andi, Levi, and Jax. Wanda is also survived by her sisters Carol (Danny) Smith and Marsha (Chuck) Hartman, along with numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and a slew of nieces and nephews who will carry her memory with them.

Celebrating a Beautiful Life

The community is invited to join Wanda’s family for a Celebration of Life service on April 15, 2025. Family and friends can pay their respects between 4-8 p.m. on April 14 and again from 10 a.m. until the service begins at 12:30 p.m. on April 15 at the funeral home. Pastor David Kemp will officiate the service, which will take place in the funeral home chapel. Following the service, Wanda will be laid to rest at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Last Farewells

Wanda’s family has requested that those wishing to honor her memory do so by sharing stories and fond experiences during the visitation. Her pallbearers will include members of her family who held her dear, ensuring that her final journey is filled with love and cherished memories.

Wanda Edwina McCollum’s spirit will continue to resonate within the Chattanooga community—forever cherished and never forgotten.

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Additional Resources

• Chattanoogan: Wanda Edwina McCollum
• Wikipedia: Chattanooga
• Taylor Funeral Home: Sharon Zackery
• Google Search: Wanda McCollum
• Chattanoogan: Charles Thomas Weaver
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Legacy