Ruth McCollum Sears

Ruth Ina McCollum Sears, 66, passed away on September 12, 2026, at UNC Medical Center Chapel Hill. Ruth was born on September 12, 1960, to William Ray McCollum and Martha Lillian Hill McCollum in Danville, Virginia. She was of the Southern Baptist faith. Ruth earned a degree in photography from Chowan College and a B.A. from Meredith College. At one time, she had her own marketing business and worked for several large companies. With a creative flair, she loved cooking from scratch, painting works of art, and home decorating. Ruth loved to travel, especially with her cherished family. Together, they enjoyed many memorable vacations to Myrtle Beach, Gatlinburg, and Disney World. In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Clark Sears; daughter, Katie Sears; and sister, Pat Crowder. Surviving is her loving sister, Susie McCollum and devoted friend, Tim Vuncannon. No formal services will be held at this time. Inurnment will be at Danville Memorial Gardens.