Jeffrey Willard McCollum, 74, of Burr Ridge, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully Oct. 18, 2024, surrounded by his family.
Jeffrey was born in Hinsdale in 1950 to Theodore Willard and Ann Ambler McCollum. Jeffrey was married to his beloved wife, Mary Lou for 52 years, and together they built a life filled with love and laughter.
Jeffrey spent his professional career in the security services industry, owning his own businesses (Midwest Security and Oak Brook Security) before joining Suburban Lock, where he spent the remainder of his career providing commercial and professional clients with a suite of access and security solutions. Upon his retirement, he continued to serve his neighborhood as a crossing guard, initially with Madison School and most recently Oak School, both in Hinsdale, watching over the next generation with care and kindness.
Jeffrey had a deep love for the outdoors, especially birds and protecting the places they need. He cherished spending time in nature, often sharing these moments with his family. When not enjoying nature, there wasn't a professional or college football or baseball game he missed, watching on television while listening to his favorite sportscasters. He will be remembered for his infectious laugh, warm spirit, unwavering dedication to his loved ones, and his passion for life's simple joys.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Lou, nee Scarano; and his children, Jeffrey of Hinsdale, Jennifer and Patrick.
Friends, families and students of Madison and Oak Schools are invited to attend a celebration of Jeffrey's life from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1, at the Burr Ridge Park District, 15W400 Harvester Drive. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made online to the American Cancer Society at http://www.donate.cancer.org or the National Audubon Society at http://www.audubon.org.
His cousins, Cynthia (Ron) Theidel Jamison, Claudia (Charlie) Theidel Hunter and Richard (Devnie) Theidel are working with Hinsdale Nurseries and Oak School families and administrators on purchasing a tree to be planted on the grounds of Oak School in memory of Mr. Jeff. A private interment will happen at a later date at Bronswood Cemetery in Oak Brook.
