Dora McCollum, long time school librarian for the Kennewick School District and member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Kennewick, Washington, was born on August 17, 1936, and peacefully passed away on October 8, 2024. 

She is survived by her son, Duane, daughter-in-law Jodi, their children Allana and Meagan, and her brother Julius Jared and sister-in-law Ellen of Auburn, Washington as well as hundreds of friends and former students. She follows her father, William Jared, Sr., mother, Ada Jared and her older brother, William (Billy) Jared Jr.,  all of Wenatchee, Washington. 

Dora's professional life began in 1976 at the Kennewick School District, teaching and mentoring being a life long passion. She retired in 1999, having last served at Southridge High School as the school librarian. For over three decades, she worked as a school librarian and media specialist, helping children navigate the then novel world of the World Wide Web. Her commitment to education was one of her most celebrated accomplishments. 

A long time member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Kennewick, Washington, she was a member of the Christ Care Board for several years. Bethlehem Lutheran School benefited from her time as a dedicated volunteer school librarian. 

A warm and extroverted person, Dora had a rich network of friends, all of whom loved and admired her. She never met a person she could not have a good conversation with about any topic such as an appreciation for a good Iced Tea to her love for mystery novels of all kinds (she would often read a book a day). Friends, reading and gardening filled her days while finding time for good long walks around the neighborhood.

She was a cancer survivor later in life and yet successfully dealt with many health challenges. But her life was a testament to the values she held: charity, patience, peace of mind, and, above all, friendship.  Dora's light and life force will resonate and guide all those who knew her. She will be missed.

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