The family of Dr. Major Charles Ross McCollough of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Chicora, Pennsylvania, sadly announces the passing of our husband, father, and friend on May 10, 2025, at the age of 83 following a brief illness.
Major was always kind and loving to his wife of 61 years, Janet Deets McCollough, ever supportive and inspiring to his son, Aaron. A gentleman, Major will be warmly remembered by those who crossed his path for his remarkable erudition and his quiet, dauntless determination.
As a young man, Major excelled in academic and athletic pursuits. He graduated summa cum laude from Grove City College in 1964 and then obtained his masters' degree and doctorate in Archeology at the University of Pennsylvania in 1971. He taught Archeology at Ohio State University, the University of Tennessee, and the University of the South. He also worked at TVA as an archeologist and cartographer.
His passion for and commitment to historical preservation led him, in the early 1980s, to undertake an effort that would occupy him until his final days: preservation and protection of Chattanooga's vast prehistoric and modern archeological resources, especially Moccasin Bend, Williams' Island, and Brown's Tavern. In the 1980s and early 1990s, the green and white "SAVE THE BEND" stickers were a common sight on Chattanooga bumpers, a campaign Major launched as a consciousness raising aspect of his broader scientific and political campaign to demonstrate the Bend's archeological value and to ensure its proper stewardship for future generations. These efforts were essential to Moccasin Bend's recognition as a National Historic Landmark and ultimately as a National Park.
In later years, Major's interest in history also led to an extensive interest in antiques, which he pursued with the same enthusiasm and intelligence that marked his academic and professional endeavors. He was, for example, an avid member of the Kentucky Rifle Association, a regular at KRA events, and a proud member of the KRA board.
He is survived by Janet, Aaron, and Suzanne Chapman, his daughter-in-law. He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary McCollough Breen, and his parents Charles and Aleen McCollough.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made in Major's name to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, 600 14th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005.
Arrangements are by Wann Funeral & Cremation Center at the foot of historic Lookout Mountain, St. Elmo, 423 821-7551. Share your memories at wannfuneralhome.com.