BREAKING NEWS: Renowned historian and beloved professor emeritus, Robert “Bob” McColley, has passed away at the age of 92. McColley, a distinguished figure at the University of Illinois, died peacefully in his home just before Christmas, marking a profound loss for the academic community and his family.
In the weeks following his passing, daughter Carolyn Burguera has been overwhelmed with heartfelt tributes, as friends and colleagues remember McColley as “such a kind person.” He was known for his uplifting spirit and humorous quips, which brought joy to those around him, including phrases like, “We’re off like a herd of steaming turtles” and “Just throw a tomato. I’ll ketchup.”
Born in Salina, Kansas, McColley’s formative years were influenced by his father, Grant, an academic himself, as the family moved frequently during the Great Depression. They eventually settled in Washington, D.C., where his mother, Alice, worked as a CIA analyst. Since 1960, Urbana became McColley’s permanent home after he joined the University of Illinois, following his master’s from Harvard and Ph.D. from Cal-Berkeley.
During his illustrious career, McColley made an indelible mark on his students, notably Don Hickey, a fellow historian who recalls the professor’s mentorship. “He had a unique ability to guide us while allowing us to learn on our own,” Hickey stated. McColley’s first book, “Slavery and Jeffersonian Virginia,” published in 1964, challenged prevailing narratives of slavery in Virginia, showcasing his pioneering spirit.
His influence extended far beyond the classroom. As a key figure in the Society for Historians of the Early American Republic, McColley was committed to mentoring young scholars. Douglas Egerton, a history professor at LeMoyne College, remembers McColley’s encouragement when he was just starting out. “He would read our chapters and articles and help us into the profession,” Egerton reflected.
McColley’s legacy is encapsulated in the phrase “be like Bob,” which Egerton encourages younger scholars to adopt. “When I go to conferences now, I try to engage with young scholars just as he did,” he said. “Bob’s welcoming nature changed the lives of many.”
With McColley’s passing, the academic world has lost a compassionate mentor and a brilliant historian who dedicated his life to understanding and teaching history. His family, including his wife, Diane, a professor of English literature, and their six children, are left with cherished memories of his laughter and zest for life.
As tributes continue to pour in, the impact of Robert McColley’s work and his profound kindness will undoubtedly resonate for generations to come. His legacy as a teacher, mentor, and friend serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion in academia and beyond.
