UPDATE: The academic community is mourning the loss of Robert “Bob” McColley, a cherished professor emeritus of history at the University of Illinois, who passed away peacefully at home just before Christmas at the age of 92. His family, including daughter Carolyn Burguera and daughter Teresa “Sid” McColley, reflect on his legacy of kindness and humor, stating that he “never had a bad word to say about anybody.”
In the weeks following his death, friends and colleagues have described McColley as a beacon of light, known for his scholarly achievements and infectious cheerfulness. “It’s one of the first things people say about my dad… that he was such a kind person,” Burguera shared, highlighting the deep impact he had on those around him.
Born in Salina, Kansas, McColley faced a challenging childhood during the Great Depression. His family moved frequently as his father, also an academic, sought teaching positions. Eventually, they settled in Washington, D.C., where his mother worked as a CIA analyst. McColley’s academic journey led him to earn his master’s at Harvard and a Ph.D. from Cal-Berkeley, before joining the University of Illinois in 1960.
McColley made significant contributions to historical scholarship, including his pioneering book, “Slavery and Jeffersonian Virginia,” published in 1964. His work challenged prevailing narratives about slavery in Virginia, and he remained a prominent figure in the field throughout his career.
Former students, like Don Hickey, now a professor emeritus at Wayne State College, remember McColley as a mentor who encouraged independent thought. “Are you ready to write?” Hickey recalled, reflecting on how McColley pushed him to start his dissertation. Hickey noted that McColley’s mentorship extended beyond his classroom, fostering a supportive environment for many young scholars.
Another former student, Douglas Egerton, who now teaches at LeMoyne College, spoke of McColley’s generous spirit. “He was just always really friendly to junior scholars, and he took a whole bunch of us under his wing,” Egerton said, emphasizing McColley’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of historians.
As the community remembers McColley, his family and friends encourage others to embody his spirit of generosity and warmth. Egerton shared a mantra he uses at conferences, saying, “When I go to conferences now, I try to think ‘be like Bob’,” urging others to engage with newcomers just as McColley did throughout his life.
McColley’s passing marks the end of an era for many in the academic community, but his legacy of kindness, humor, and mentorship will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. As his family grieves, they remain grateful for the outpouring of love and support from those who knew him and were touched by his remarkable life.
Authorities report that memorial services for McColley are expected to be announced in the coming days, with many eager to pay their respects to a man who dedicated his life to education and kindness.
