Grady Sharpe McCollum, 85, of Raleigh and formerly Southern Pines, passed away at the Sunrise of Raleigh on Monday, February 12th.
His funeral service will be held at the Pinelawn Memorial Park, 1105 Morganton, Rd. Southern Pines, on Saturday, February 17th at 3:00 P.M.
Born in Rockingham County, N.C. on August 6, 1932, he was the son of the late Ernest and Florence Sharp McCollum. Grady was raised on his family’s tobacco farm in the Bethany section of Reedsville. After his high school graduation, Grady served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict. He had earned the rank of Sgt. at the time of his honorable discharge. Grady spent 30 plus years as assistant trainer to Mickey Walsh at Stoneybrook Farm. He kept the farm running handling all facets of the horse and farm business. His constant resourcefulness and tireless efforts were noticed and respected by all who knew him. Grady was also a member of the Elks Club and the VFW in Southern Pines.
Grady was married to the late Sheila Walsh McCollum for 56 years. He is survived by his sons: Michael McCollum, wife Pam, of Raleigh and Daniel Sharpe McCollum of Rockingham. He was the grandfather of Grady McCollum, wife Amanda, and Haleigh McCollum and the great-grandfather of Katie Mae and Thomas Grady McCollum. As a husband, Father, and friend, Grady was always there to share a smile, a funny story, a drink, or to lend a hand. Grady was a genuine man who had a strong inner drive to always do his best and his steady presence and infectious laugh will be missed.
To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Grady Sharpe McCollum, please visit Boles’ Tribute Store.
Online condolences: BolesFuneralHome.com.
Mr. McCollum’s family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers at Sandhills Sentinel.
