William Collum

William Leon Collum

"Whiskers"

William Leon Collum, known to friends and family as Whiskers, left this life on November 29, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on December 29, 1942, in Oak Grove, Louisiana, Whiskers spent much of his life in Kermit, Texas, where he built a loving home and a vast collection.

Whiskers was a unique soul, known for his extreme collecting habits. He had a passion for knives and knickknacks, but his true joy came from his impressive collection of signs. For him, collecting was more than a hobby-it was a lifelong pursuit. He loved attending trade shows, engaging in spirited bartering with fellow collectors, and unearthing treasures at estate sales and flea markets, as long as they were not held to far that is, because while he cherished the thrill of the hunt, he was equally content to return home to be in his own bed at night.

Throughout his life, Whiskers was a dedicated worker, spending many years in the oil and gas industry. His work ethic and determination were admired by all who knew him. Yet, above all accomplishments, it was his profound love for Sandra that truly defined him. They tied the knot on September 24, 1962, in Odessa, Texas, and together they forged a beautiful life filled with love, and laughter.

Leon is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sandra Collum of Kermit, TX., granddaughter, Danelle Jones, and 5 great grandchildren, Emma, Ean, Grayson, and Olivia Barron, and Cambree Jones.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Inez Collum, son, William Tyrone Collum, brother, Joe L. Collum, and 5 sisters, Fannie Buffington, Joyce Buffington, Lucille Compton, Cherry Compton, and Wanda Nelson.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 5:00PM - 8:00PM, and Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 10:00AM - 8:00PM, at The Kermit Funeral Home. Family and friends will gather to celebrate his life at 2:00PM, Friday, December 5, 2025, at The Kermit Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Eddy Whitefield officiating. Whiskers will be laid to rest at the Kermit Cemetery, Pallbearers will include Michael Shropshire, Kody Shropshire, Mitchell Sims, Don Wilson, David Smith, Daniel Franks, Ean Barron, and Grayson Barron. Honorary pallbearers include John Shropshire. Arrangements are under the personal care of Kermit Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Condolences to the family can be made at www.kermitfuneralhome.com