Shirley Annette McCollum

Graveside services celebrating the life of Mrs. Shirley Annette McCollum will begin at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Meridian Memorial Park Cemetery (Old Highway 80 West). The family will receive guests from 10:30 until 11:30 p.m. on Thursday at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

Shirley Annette McKelvain McCollum, 95, of Meridian, Mississippi, passed away peacefully, ready to be with her Lord, on April 17, 2026. She was born on October 27, 1930, at 515 C Street in Meridian, Mississippi, the home where her mother, Willie Reed, resided. Shiley was the beloved daughter of Willie Reed and grew up with her sister, Eula Rae, with whom she shared a close bond. At a young age, Shirley and her family became active members of the Salvation Army Church. Shirley and Alvin were married in 1947 and raised their two children, Norris and Dorris, in a home filled with love. Shirley's commitment to her family and community was evident in everything she did. She volunteered regularly, served others, and loved being involved in church activities.

Shirley was a woman of great creativity and determination. At the age of 35, she went back to school to become a nurse's aide, finding joy in caring for others. She also had a passion for ceramics, gardening, woodworking, and staying connected with friends and family, especially through FaceTime and Facebook. She loved to share her wisdom, often quoting, "Laughter is like a medicine; it's good for the soul."

Shirley is survived by her children, Norris McCollum and Dorris (Henry) Gonzalez, as well as her cherished grandchildren: Christina and John Branscum, Wesley Branscum, Montana and Catherine Branscum, Ceilia and Charlie Branscum, Hannah and Ben McAnally, Gavin, Kyler, and Chase McAnally, Melissa Gonzalez, Lisa DeFilippo, Brad and Michelle Gonzalez, Sophia and Olivia Gonzalez, and adopted children Melody and Tyler Shirley, and Susan McClure. She leaves behind cherished nieces and nephews: Donald and Debbie Boyette; mike Boyette; Mary Johnston; Josh Boyette (Lashaye); Darlene Grice; and Jovan Hill; as well as many other loving nieces and nephews who will forever hold her in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin, her parents, Willie and Grady Chambers, and her sister, Eula Rae Boyette.

Shirley's life was a testament of love, faith, and service. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions in memory of Mrs. McCollum be made to the local Salvation Army by mail at 1115 25th Avenue, Meridian, MS 39301.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.robertbarhamffh.com.