Andy McCollum

M.Andrew (Andy) McCollum

On September 7, 2023, the world lost a beautiful compassionate, funny soul. Born in Toccoa, Georgia on March 1, 1947, Andy McCollum greeted the world with his beautiful smile and wonderful laugh. Lewis B. and Dottee M. McCollum raised their

firstborn child in the Camelot-like community of Turnerville, Georgia in Habersham County. Andy was followed by 3 siblings: Sam (deceased), Nancy (Don) Higginbotham, and Angela (George) MacMillan all of Turnerville. His nieces live in Georgia and his nephew in Alabama with their families.

Andy is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Margaret, his sons Burt and Michael, and his 2 sisters. He gave Margaret the greatest gift when they married. Andy was very proud and loved both sons greatly. Burt and Michael gave Andy and Margaret 4 terrific grandchildren. His face lit up when saw his grandchildren.

In 1965 Andy graduated from Habersham County High School in Clarkesville, Georgia. He proudly served his school's Beta Club and graduated Summe Cum Laude. Majoring in psychology, he graduated from the University of Georgia with

Bachelor of Science in 1969. In 1974 Andy completed his Master's in Social Work.

Andy's professional life started as a Social Work Tech at Central State Psychiatric Hospital in Milledgeville, GA. His Dad was so pleased because he had insurance and retirement benefits. Andy worked as Unit Director at Northwest Regional Psychiatric Hospital, Rome, GA; Denver Colorado's Fort Logan Mental

Health Center and Clinical Director and Director of the Northeast Community Mental Health/Mental Retardation/Substance Abuse Center, Athens, GA. He spoke at Jimmy Carter's Center in Atlanta regarding how to use state funds for the most chronically mental ill people's medicines. He was promoted to the Regional

Director positions in Athens and Augusta for the Regional Boards. He retired in good standing after 35 years of service. Andy enjoyed his retirement years by visiting family and friends, fishing, woodworking, going to car shows, and hanging out in his shop which he and his sons built. He traveled to Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maine, eastern Canada, and California.

Andy would be honored if you would donate to Nuci's Space, 396 Oconee Street, Athens, GA 30601; (706)227-1515; www.nuci.org

Andy's funeral will be Sunday, September 17, 2023, at 2PM at the Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, West Chapel 1211 Jimmy Daniel Road, Watkinsville, GA. The funeral home is located off Highway 316, inside Loop 10.

Lord & Stephens, West, Watkinsville, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com

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