Sterling Jerome McCollum

Sterling Jerome McCollum, son of the late Dorothy Rogers and the late Billy Gene McCollum was born in Burlington, North Carolina on April 3, 1955. He was raised by his late grandmother Bertha Reid, lovingly called Mama Bert. He was educated in the Burlington Public School System and graduated from Walter Williams High School. In his early life, he attended school to receive his Commercial Driver’s License and welding certificate. In 1980, Sterling moved to Baltimore for better work opportunities and to rejoin his mom, stepdad and siblings. Eventually, Sterling was married and within this union, he raised three sons. Sterling was a devoted man to the Word of God. After a life-threatening experience, he was saved under the ministry of Pastor Robert Tilton. Sterling served as a member of the Power of Faith Ministries for over twenty-five years under the leadership of Bishop Michael Smith. At Power of Faith Ministries, he faithfully served on the choir and in the drama ministry. He often bragged about being delivered from alcohol and cigarettes, and ministered to anyone he came across about the love of the Lord. He was never ashamed to spread the love of Jesus Christ. Sterling was a giving and loving man, often taking in and feeding the homeless. He was often known as the “life of the party” and could make anyone laugh, even in his seriousness. He was a taxi cab driver for over 20 years with a number of different cab services, particularly Diamond Cab Company. He had an entrepreneurial spirit, and eventually owned and operated his own taxi cab service. Though he did not have any professional training, he was skilled at carpentry and he often built many things around his home. Seventeen years ago, Sterling didn’t know his future life companion, Kim, had moved across the street. They dated for three years and on March 1, 2004, Sterling and Kim were married. Kim was a very devoted wife and a loving friend to Sterling, who took care of him during his time of illness. On Thursday, October 25, 2018, the Lord called Sterling to his heavenly home. Left to cherish fond memories are, his wife of 14 years, Kim McCollum; three sons, Sterling Donnell McCollum (Kena), Jamal McCollum, and Dominic Knight; four step-children, Donte Morris, Donya Morris, Tierra Sykes, and Tikiea Sykes; one aunt, Bertha Mae Reid; one uncle, Willy “Sleepy” James Reid (Leola); two sisters, Lesa Wiggins (Kevin), and Sandra Matthews (Brian); three brothers, Steven McCollum (Eva) of North Carolina, Jack Keith Rogers, and Terrance Rogers (Theresa); thirteen grandchildren; seven nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins, family and friends.

Tributes

Sterling Jerome McCollum

April 3, 1955 - October 25, 2018