Wayne McCollum

(From Parker Mortuary)

Wayne Leon McCollum, age 66 of Joplin, passed away on Thursday, March 23, 2017 at Freeman Hospital following a sudden illness.

Wayne was born July 15, 1950 in Joplin, Missouri to the late Howard McCollum and Lila Atwood McCollum. He was a plumber with the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union Local 178 of Springfield, Missouri. Throughout his career he made numerous friends, many of which calling him "Dad". He was a master plumber, spending a lifetime learning all he could about his trade. Wayne loved not only to work, but had a special friendship with all of his animals.

On December 31, 1997, Wayne married Brenda Lawrence after spending more than 20 years together. She survives of the home in Joplin.

Additional survivors include step children, Kristy Houdyshell and husband, David of Oronogo, Missouri and Travis Benfield of Neosho; grandchildren, Travis and Austin Perry, Luke and Lilly Benfield, Trey and Chelsea Houdyshell; great grandchildren, Jordon and Madaline Houdyshell; sister, Donna Thrasher and husband, Wayne of Joplin; a niece Katie Thrasher.

Funeral services are planned for Tuesday, March 28 at 5:30 p.m. at Parker Mortuary with Russ Hibbard, officiating. Wayne will be taken for cremation following the service.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.