Wayne Mccollum

Wayne was born on May 17, 1912 to the Rev .and Mrs. O.L. McCollum in the Oak Grove community in Ellis County on a forty acre farm .A graduate of Central High, his love for horses developed early in life as he rode to school every day. Wayne distinguished himself as an American soldier shortly after he volunteered for the U.S. Army in 1941. Upon finishing his regular time at Fort Knox, the next day Japan bombed Pearl Harbor .He immediately re-enlisted to serve his country during World War II in the 2nd Armored Tank Division under the command of General George Patton in both the North African and European theaters. It was 1946 before he was discharged from the Army. During his 32 months of overseas service he received seven Battle Stars, the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star and several other decorations. Wayne began his public service to Ellis County as deputy sheriff upon his return in 1946. It was during this time he exhibited the charm and intelligence to marry Judy Appling in late 1948.Their love for riding horses was a natural bond for their next 64 years together. Many rodeos and parades have been led by this attractive couple on horseback. In 1956 Wayne was elected Sheriff of Ellis County and continued to be elected for the next 20 years. During this time he molded a department that became a model with sheriffs across the state. He amassed a host of other credits. He served as a Lt. Colonel in the Texas State Guard. His longstanding service to the community of Ellis County was permanently recognized by the naming of the new Wayne McCollum Detention Center in 2000. He was known by the name "‘Gentle Justice ", and was trusted by all who knew him including many former prisoners .With coolness and composure, he stood 6'5"and throughout his life he was the kind of handsome man who attracted attention. He gave credit for his remarkable health to his early - morning trail rides with his trusted horse "Bar ". The Sheriff never wanted to live anywhere else and praised the people of Ellis County, folks that he had loved and served, who remained his steadfast admirers. Wayne was preceded in death by his spouse Judy Appling McCollum and sister Eva Mae Lester. He is survived by his sister Opal Mae Merritt, brother John Raymond McCollum and wife Lillian and nieces and nephews .The family wishes to sincerely thank G.T. Morton, his lifelong protégé and friend for all of his support and care. Pallbearers are The Ellis County Sheriff's Department. Honorary Pallbearers are: Frank Croy, Larry Croy, James Ledbetter, Jim Ed Underwood, Joe Bob Underwood, Ray Stewart, Jim Bynum, Billy Merritt, Tommy Allday, Wayne's Horse "Bar" and other friends and former deputies. Visitation and Memorial is set for Wednesday November 20, 2013 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Wayne Boze Funeral Home in Waxahachie Texas. Celebration of his life and Interment will occur Thursday November 21, 2013 at Hillcrest Burial Park at 10:00 am. Arrangements are under the direction of Wayne Boze Funeral Home in Waxahachie. www.waynebozefuneralhome.com

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