North Branch Mourns the Loss of Beloved Community Member Marion Leon Collum
North Branch is a little quieter today as family and friends remember Marion Leon Collum, who passed away on September 9, 2024, at the age of 73. The community is mourning the loss of a cherished neighbor and friend whose spirit touched so many lives. Marion’s passing at The Manor of Novi in Michigan has left a significant void, especially among those who knew her well.
A Life Full of Love and Care
Marion was born on March 29, 1951, in Princeton, West Virginia, where she was raised by her loving mother, Freda McCune, and step-father, William Phipps. Moving to Detroit for her childhood, Marion grew up surrounded by the bustling energy of the city. However, it was on March 10, 1971, when she truly found her joy by marrying Robert C. Collum, with whom she shared a deep and loving bond.
As a devoted homemaker, Marion poured her heart into her family, raising them with grace and love. Her life was a testament to the joys of family, gardening, baking, and crochet. Marion often spent her days tending to her vibrant garden, where she found peace and contentment. Those who visited her home were often met with the delicious scents of her canning efforts, as she was known for preserving seasonal fruits and veggies. It was these simple yet beautiful moments that defined Marion’s life.
Family: Her Greatest Pride
Marion is survived by her daughter, Lisa Nunley, who carries the legacy of her mother’s kindness and warmth. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Jessica, Jacquelyn, Julia, Wade Jr., and Isabella. These grandchildren were Marion’s joy, and she embraced every opportunity to shower them with love. Not to forget, she was ever delighted to welcome her two great-grandsons, who brought additional happiness into her life.
While Marion had so much love to give, her heart faced challenges as well. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert, and her sons, Kirk, Eric, and Wade Collum, losses that weighed heavily on her family. Despite these hardships, Marion remained a beacon of strength and resilience, touching the hearts of all who knew her.
Visitation and Celebration of Life
The community came together to honor Marion with a visitation held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 12-3 p.m. at the Blackburn Chapel-Martin Funeral Home. It’s heartwarming to see how many lives she touched, as friends and family shared stories and memories during this time. Following the visitation, a funeral service was conducted at 3 p.m. led by her granddaughters, Jessica and Jacquelyn, creating a heartfelt tribute filled with love and respect.
Sharing Your Memories
Marion’s family welcomes any online condolences and fond memories to be shared, allowing everyone to partake in remembering this extraordinary woman. For those who would like to share their thoughts or reminisce about Marion, the family has set up a space for this on the Blackburn Chapel’s website.
As North Branch grieves this loss, it is clear that Marion’s legacy of love and family will continue to live on in the hearts of her loved ones. She exemplified how strength and compassion can create lasting bonds, and her story will be shared for generations to come. Rest in peace, Marion—you will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.
