Obituary for Melinda Ann McCollum

Melinda Ann (Henson) McCollum of Hiawassee, Ga, born July 24th,1965 to Fred Glyne Henson Sr (deceased) and Eva Ann Henson of Atlanta Ga. Melinda, or Grasshopper as her friends called her, made her peaceful transition to her heavenly home in her sleep on November 17, 2024 at the age of 59.

Melinda was born in Chico, California. She lived in Germany, New Mexico, Hayesville, Tennessee, Florida, North Carolina and Georgia. She was in the Hayesville class of 1983. She worked many jobs and her most rewarding one was being a CNA at Chatuge Regional Nursing home in Hiawassee for many years. She loved the patients and their families. She was a seamstress, a landscaper, plant nursery worker, and many other jobs. She loved the mountains, fishing, cooking, hunting, cruises, concerts, camping, traveling, thrift store shopping, bluegrass music, and so much more.

Melinda lived a life of twists and turns, ups and downs. She made her share of mistakes as we all do, but also helped so many others, even when she had very little of her own. She accepted Jesus as her personal Savior. She is now absent from the body and in the presence of the Lord. She is no longer in pain from the health issues she endured. May those that knew her remember the good. She would want us all to take everything to the Lord.

She is survived by her brother Freddie Henson and sister-in-law Tammy Henson of Hayesville N.C, also her sister Kathy Gibby and brother-in-law Keith Gibby of Hayesville N.C. and a niece Amy Gibby of Hayesville N.C.

Melinda's first marriage was to Eddie Chastain of Martin's Creek N.C. Melinda was the biological mother of Bonnie and Amanda. Ms. Barbara Chastain has been and is "mom" to Bonnie and Amanda for which Melinda was grateful.

Bonnie Chastain (BJ Taylor) their children Levi, Landon, Abbie of Martin's Creek and Amanda (Chastain) Hiatt (Wayne) their daughter Zola of Muphy.

Melinda's second marriage was to Donnie McCollum of Blairsville GA. Her children by marriage, Daniel McCollum and Amy (McCollum) Boykin.

Grandchildren; Levi Chastain, Landon and Abbie Taylor and Zola Hiatt. Melinda has many uncles, aunts, cousins, family and friends.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16

There will be no services at her request.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.


You may send tributes to the family at www.townson-rose.com