of Stuttgart, AR
February 9, 1942 - June 21, 2023
Surrounded by his loving family, Marion Taylor McCollum, Jr., 81, of Stuttgart, Arkansas passed away on Wednesday, June 21, 2023. Marion was born on February 9th, 1942 in Stuttgart, Arkansas to Marion ''Mack'' McCollum and Ruth Cannon McCollum. He was a lifelong resident of Stuttgart and a member of the First Methodist Church of Stuttgart, Arkansas.
Marion graduated from Stuttgart High School in 1960 where he played football for the Ricebirds. He attended Arkansas State Teachers College with wishes to become an architect before being called home to run the family business his father started in 1944. This led to his determination that each of his children would receive a college education.
Marion will be remembered as building Mack's Prairie Wings into the business it is today. With the ambition and vision Marion had, he would take risks that most would not, which led him to build the empire that is now known as ''America's Premier Waterfowl Outfitter.'' He is a legend in the waterfowl industry and he dedicated his life to being an advocate for the next generation of the outdoor sportsman. We find comfort in knowing that Marion's legacy will live on through many outdoor enthusiasts for generations to come.
Marion discovered his love for the outdoors by hunting with his father at a very young age. In 1961, Marion began his adventure in the sporting goods business by becoming a partner with his father. Due to his upbringing and his love of nature, this decision would be a catalyst in shaping how Marion would change the world of waterfowl hunting. Over the course of his life, Marion would receive many awards and achievements. In 1999, The Wall Street Journal featured Mack's and the high times in the duck business. From the years of 1995-2002, Marion was awarded the honor of becoming a commissioner for the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. He served as chairman of the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission from 2001-2002. Due to Marion's dedicated commitment to the renovation of Greenlee Lake, the lake was then named Arkansas's Marion McCollum Greenlee Lake in 2001. Stuttgart honored Marion in 2002 as Citizen of the Year.'' Marion was inducted into the Legends of the Outdoors Hall of Fame in 2007, the Arkansas Outdoors Hall of Fame in 2008, the 6th Annual Jerry Jones Sportsman's Award in 2010 and the Arkansas Waterfowler Hall of Fame in 2016 and the Legends of the Fall Outdoor Hall of Fame. Marion would go on to achieve the Winchester Legend Award in 2020. Throughout his life, Marion played a vital role in advocating for youth shooting sports. He was also a major supporter and a Life Sponsor of Ducks Unlimited, Delta Waterfowl and Waterfowl USA.
He is survived by JoAnn, his wife of 34 years; one son, Dodd (Tammy) McCollum of Little Rock, Arkansas; three daughters, Jill (Jon) Flaxman of Little Rock, Arkansas, Ginger (Phillip) Holladay of Stuttgart, Arkansas and Sarah (Justin) Berg of Stuttgart, Arkansas; 9 Grandchildren, Daniel Holladay, Alex Flaxman, Sophie Holladay, Ava Kate McCollum, Ben Flaxman, Tyler Berg, Jack Holladay, Anna Grace Berg and Aubree Berg; sister, K. Dean Walker of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; special friend and business partner, Chuck Lock and many other nieces, nephews, employees and friends.
Marion was preceded in death by his parents.
Following Marion's wishes, the family plans to have a private celebration of Marion's life. After cremation, his remains will be spread over the lake at his beloved Sunset Lodge in Roe, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a gift payable to the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation, 2 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205. The Marion McCollum Endowment Fund has been established at the Foundation to support Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports - a program Marion was extremely passionate about. Gifts can also be made online: https://bit.ly/marion-mccollum or to First Methodist Church in Stuttgart, AR.
Arrangements are by Roller-England Funeral Home, England, Arkansas.
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91 Condolence(s)
David and Janet Scherm
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
Prayers for the family.
Jeff Schultz
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
On behalf of all of us at White Flyer Targets, Marion will be truly missed and our thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family and friends.
Shawn and Kyndell Rea
Monday, June 26, 2023
Can't express the heartfelt sorrow Kyndell and I have for the loss of Marion. We extend our prayers to JoAnn, Ginger, The remainder of Marion's family, and to Chuck. Marion took me in as a young sales rep for Winchester Ammunition in 1991 and steered me, guided me, and mentored me for numerous years. He and JoAnn treated me and Kyndell and so many others in the Sporting Goods Industry like family. We shared many many many good times together and Kyndell and I will treasure every memory and relish every photo of our time with Marion.
To a life well lived and until we meet again my friend,
Shawn and Kyndell Rea
Chuck Sitton
Monday, June 26, 2023
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Mc Collum last year when we sold him a new truck. Talked to him and his cousin, I believe, and the tales they told had me cracking up the whole time. He was truly a fine man and ambassador for Arkansas and the ducks that make the Grand Prairie what it is today. Sure hated to hear of his passing. Glad I got to know him. Prayers for all the family and employees.
John & Kim Baxter
Monday, June 26, 2023
Missing you already my friend.Thank you for all the memories. God Bless
Willie & Vickie Simmons
Monday, June 26, 2023
A friend & a brother like non other, Marion (Nate) Mc Collum will always be remembered. RIP
Leanne Anthony
Monday, June 26, 2023
Prayers be with his family during this difficult time...Mr Marion was a great man who always brought a smile to your face whenever you seen him! He was like a ray of sunshine always, he will be missed RIP
Jay Gadberry
Sunday, June 25, 2023
Pamela Campbell
Sunday, June 25, 2023
Such a wonderful life he gave to our community â¤ï¸
Prayers 🙠for his loss to his family and many friends .
Mary Ellen Walton -Seymore
Sunday, June 25, 2023
A legend in his time and great man. He loved his hometown and the people . My brother spoke of him often.Prayers for his family in the coming weeks.He will not be forgotten .His legacy will live on forever in Stuttgart and over our great country. Loved his smile.
Lyle and Ruby Ellis
Sunday, June 25, 2023
It is with great sadness that we send condolences to your family in the loss of Marion. He was a great friend. He will be missed. Sincerely, Lyle and Ruby Ellis
Martha Richenback Summerford
Sunday, June 25, 2023
JoAnn and Family, I graduated high school with Marion and thought a lot of him. My brother was Butch Richenback and Marion helped him get started making duck calls. He continued support of Butch until he passed away in 2015. My husband, Charles, passed away in December, 2021, and he thought a lot of Marion, also. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Eddie Smith
Sunday, June 25, 2023
To all the family so sorry to hear about coach. I was a proud member of the 1965 undefeated and unscored on whirlybird’s. He always remembered me and was always glad to see kids from the team. Have the fondness memories of him. In our prayers.
James Jacob Flannery
Sunday, June 25, 2023
I've known Marion and his dad "Mack" since the early sixties. Loved them both and respected them tremendously. Mack used to tease me on bagging game and Marion was the friendliest man I've known. First name basis since I can remember. God has thrown that mold away when he took Marion home..
My condolences to his family.
Jim
Keith
Sunday, June 25, 2023
Ted
Sunday, June 25, 2023
He was a dandy and everyone will miss him.
David Vidrine
Sunday, June 25, 2023
RIP Nate. U will be missed my friend
Buck Derryberry
Sunday, June 25, 2023
Every encounter I have had with Marion and his family was positive. Very good people who made life better.
Bill Shrum
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Maroon McCallum was a true sportsmen. He loved the outdoors..
Carole Harvill
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Timeless memories of kindness extended. Job well done. Rest in God's kingdom.
Jenni Cheshier
Saturday, June 24, 2023
It was a pleasure to know you and to see the incredible impact you had on Stuttgart and the entire State of Arkansas. Your legacy remains but you will be sorely missed by many.
Melanie Smith
Saturday, June 24, 2023
JoAnn, I am deeply sorry for the loss of Marion. He was a great man, well respected and friend to so many. He will be truly missed.
You and your family are in my prayers. Love to you all and may God grant you peace in your heart â¤ï¸ðŸ™
Linda McCollum Starnes
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Marion was such a sweet man, and Dennis and I always enjoyed seeing him when we were in town. John and I will be praying that God will give you all that you need during this time.
Tanya Hiryak
Saturday, June 24, 2023
JoAnn, Dodd, Ginger, Jill, Sarah and all of the family, I’m deeply saddened to learn about Marion’s passing. He was a one of a kind special person who will be forever missed by many. I thought the world of him! You will all be in my heart, thoughts and prayers! I’m just so very sorry!
Mickie Cox
Saturday, June 24, 2023
It was a pleasure and honor to knowing work for Marion. He was a outstanding man who has left a lasting legacy. Prayers for his family and friends
Connie & Jim Moore
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Charlene & Charles Barger
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Mr. Marion will be greatly missed. Prayers for the family.
Thomas Neuberger
Saturday, June 24, 2023
I have immense respect and admiration for this Southern Gentleman. I always enjoyed Turkey hunting with him and his crew out in West Texas, we had some memorable hunts together. He will always be one of my favorite people in the industry.
Glenn Clark
Saturday, June 24, 2023
I sure will miss talking with him
Bryan Binz
Saturday, June 24, 2023
I’m so sorry for your loss. Marion was a great man and the best boss I’ve had.
He leaves a legacy for all of us to follow in life.
Bryan
Nicole Herranen
Saturday, June 24, 2023
My dearest condolences for the family. Marion was such a fun loving man. I’ll never forget my first duck hunt with my favorite Mack’s friends. Sending hugs from Oregon.
Robert Pianalto
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Donald Persons
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Great Sportmans but better human being, R I P my friend and God Bless your family’s ily I will miss you ðŸ‘🦆🦆🦆
Shirley Willis
Saturday, June 24, 2023
He was the kindest person, gone but never forgotten ðŸ™ðŸ»
Monica Cruthis
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Mrs. JoAnn, Jill, Ginger, Sara, and Dodd, I was so sorry to hear of Mr
Marion's passing. I will always remember how great he was to me when I worked at Mack's . He was the best boss and one of a kind. Please know that y'all are in my thoughts and prayers. May God give y'all peace, strength and comfort during this time and the days ahead.
Angela Rosencrantz
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Hannah Hancock Maier
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Sending lots of love and prayers to the family. Marion was an amazing man that aways had a smile on his face.
Jenifer Bethell
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Thoughts and Prayers for JoAnn, family , friends and Stuttgart….Marion will always be remembered by many . Such a fine man. Thankful to be one of his many friends. Jenifer Bethell
Gayla (Baker) Rogers
Saturday, June 24, 2023
I have so many fond memories of Mr. Marion throughout my lifetime from stories my daddy would tell when they were both members of Casscoe Hunting Club many years ago to when I worked at the Ramsay Firm in Pine Bluff and Marion came in one day to see Mr. Bill Bridgforth when they were both on AG&F Commission plus many more. Always had a smile, always welcomed me with open arms and a big hug. He will forever live on in my heart. Prayers for the whole family … Ms. JoAnn, Dodd, Jill and Ginger. Love you all.
Robert Kendricck
Saturday, June 24, 2023
PRAYERS AND DEEPEST SYMPATHIES FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS
HE WAS A MOVER AND A SHAKER IN THE WORLD OF CONSERVATION, HUNTING
AND EQUIPPING HUNTERS AND FISHERMAN.
YOU MADE YOUR MARK AND YOU WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY
THANKS FOR EVERYTHING!
Cliff & Shannon McCollum
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Tony and Valerie Davis
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Lost a special friend
RIP Nate
Karrie Hamilton
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Craig porter
Saturday, June 24, 2023
He was a great friend and I loved him dearly
Trent, Amanda & Stone Pardue
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Our deepest condolences. Mr. Marion was a huge part of our lives and he will be deeply missed. We are praying for the family which has become part of ours.
Steve Edwards
Saturday, June 24, 2023
I have fond memories of Marion when I Coached at Stuttgart with George BurkeðŸ™ðŸˆ
Rocky Horton
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Sissy Henley
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Love you all. My heart and prayers are with you all. Ms. Joann, Ginger and Chuck always in my heart. "Forever Duck Season "🥰
Tracy Watkins
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Marion was one of the best people I've ever known! He had a heart of gold!! My deepest sympathy to his family. I pray for peace and comfort for you all during this time.
Zettie & Kenneth Jones
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Marion made an impact on so many lives, mine included.
Matt Campbell
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Marion McCollum lived an incredible life by making so many positive contributions. Anytime you got to spend with Marion was a gift. He cared so much and gave so much for others. His legacy for generations of hunters and shooters, present, past and future is just one of many of his gifts he gave. He will be missed dearly and we should celebrate is achievements!!
Billy and Bobbie Alberson
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Sending love and prayers to the McCollum family.
John DELOACH
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Irreplaceable. A joy to be around.
Kristina cox
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Sorry for your loss I be praying 🙠for family
John DELOACH
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Irreplaceable. A joy to be around.
Erica Barnett
Saturday, June 24, 2023
It was a pleasure to have known him. He will be deeply missed.
Suzi
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Bless Marion’s family and friends!! What a life !! What a gentleman and sportsman!! I was lucky to have known you!!
Gary wood
Saturday, June 24, 2023
My players to all the family. Marion will be missed by so many in Stuttgart and beyond. I'll always remember that wonder smile and that firm handshake.
Donna Smith
Saturday, June 24, 2023
It makes me so sad to hear about Marion’s death. He was a legend and one of a kind! He and Bob grew up as neighbors and best buds! My prayers for you JoAnn and all the family ðŸ™ðŸ™
Nita Morris Roberts
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Stuttgart has lost a great man.Prayers for JoAnn and all the family.He will be missed. RIP Marion â¤ï¸
Larry Nixon
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Marion was a special friend to all outdoor enthusiasts ! He will be missed by all. Proud that I had the pleasure of hunting and fishing with him many times. God bless the family !
Pam Bevell
Saturday, June 24, 2023
So sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family. Such a wonderful man and admired by all
Lindsey Davis
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Rest in Peace Marion! You were always so fun loving! We will all miss you deeply!
Kenny Spencer
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Marion was a great friend I will miss him dearly.
Dennis and Sharon and Paige Seidenschwarz
Friday, June 23, 2023
Such a great man. He will be truly missed. Prayers to all of his family and friends. Love and hugs!
Steele P
Friday, June 23, 2023
I will miss this man. He coached me in the peewee football team.!
Nadia Barnes
Friday, June 23, 2023
Continued prayers for Mr. Marion’s family and close friends. To know him was to love him. I feel blessed to have had him as a boss
for 10+ years. Your legacy will live on forever.
David Miller
Friday, June 23, 2023
Todd & Donna Norman
Friday, June 23, 2023
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this time. He will be missed greatly.
Charles Morris
Friday, June 23, 2023
Love ya Nate!!! Going to
Miss you!
Randy and Karon Weatherford
Friday, June 23, 2023
Thoughts and prayers for your loss.
Susan McCollum Douglas
Friday, June 23, 2023
I’m going to miss being called “cuz†and the smile on that face. May you remember that he’s always close by on your heart. we will all miss him greatly.
Sincerely
Susan McCollum Douglas
Aaron Thompson &Family
Friday, June 23, 2023
He was a fine man and our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Dennis Seymore,DVM
Friday, June 23, 2023
Andy Farrell
Friday, June 23, 2023
Thank you Marion. Some of my best days were spent with you in the woods. You defined gentleman and sportsman. God bless you and your family. Hope to see you again someday.
Dan Stokes
Friday, June 23, 2023
Will be missed by all that knew him.
Many fond memories
Prayers for the family.
Eloise VanCamp
Friday, June 23, 2023
This came as such a surprise. God bless all family and friends. Special condolences to my special friend that felt like a sister from the first time I saw her JoAnn. I love you dearly.
Sue Davis
Friday, June 23, 2023
Thinking of you during this time
Fonda logsdon
Friday, June 23, 2023
Great guy. So glad yo have known him for 59 years.
Linda Nutt
Friday, June 23, 2023
Gone but never forgotten â£ï¸ðŸ˜ðŸ’”ðŸ™
Joey Bates
Friday, June 23, 2023
Wow - so sorry to read this news and thoughts go out to his family and friends. Marion hosted us so many years with Peck, Gill, and Pardue as passers by every winter and always treated us like family. May the sun always shine, the wind be easy, and that long beard land feet down in your range of fire.
David Gaston
Friday, June 23, 2023
Condolences for the family and friends of Marion. Prayers for strength and healing have been sent! God Bless.
Billy Elam
Friday, June 23, 2023
Gonna miss you Marion you are a very special man that i knew for a long time godspeedðŸ™
GLenda Gerald Bednar
Friday, June 23, 2023
So sorry for your loss! Marion was a really nice and kind person Prayers for your family during this difficult time!!
Rodney Persons
Friday, June 23, 2023
Marion was a friend to everybody
He will be greatly missed
Monica Morales
Friday, June 23, 2023
Thank you Mr. Marion for your kindness and generosity, you will always have a place in my heart. My sincerest condolences to the whole McCollum familyðŸ™ðŸ»ðŸ™ðŸ»ðŸ™ðŸ»
Don Trullinger
Friday, June 23, 2023
Todd Tittle
Friday, June 23, 2023
A legendary leader in our industry and in the shooting sports! We will miss him tremendously! We pray for his family in this time.
Todd Tittle
Winchester Ammunition
Garland and Lucy Simpson
Friday, June 23, 2023
Joann, I just heard about Marion. I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers.
Garland and Lucy Simpson
Judy Richardson
Friday, June 23, 2023
Dear family my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time
E A McCracken Jr
Friday, June 23, 2023
A good man who will be missed by many.