A North Carolina church community is grieving the devastating loss of Pastor Tammy McCollum, a woman remembered for her vibrant faith and servant’s heart, after she was fatally shot inside her home. She was 58.

According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, officers responded to a call shortly after 2 a.m. Monday regarding an assault with a deadly weapon at McCollum’s residence. When they arrived, they found her suffering from gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her husband, Eddie McCollum, 61, was taken into custody at the home and has since been charged with first-degree murder.

McCollum served as a minister at The Well Worship Center in Statesville, where she was known for her deep love for God and her commitment to serving others. As news of her death spread, tributes began pouring in from those who knew her both inside and outside the church.

In addition to her ministry work, McCollum spent years working at Ulta Beauty in Charlotte. Coworkers and friends described her as someone who brought light into every room she entered.

“I worked with Tammy for several years at Ulta. She was one of the most kind, vibrant, and caring people I’ve ever had the chance to know,” salon owner Van Appleton shared. “She deserved so much better than this. Rest in Paradise, Tammy, you’ll be missed by all.”

Others echoed similar sentiments, remembering her joyful spirit and unwavering kindness. Sha’Brittany Evans called her “Ulta Beauty’s best employee,” writing, “I’m going to miss your beautiful smile and bright spirit… My God, this is a cruel, evil world we live in. I love you, my girl, always.”

Audrey M. Ingram reflected on McCollum’s faith, sharing a video of the pastor worshiping in church and describing her as “full of light.”

“One thing for sure I can say is that she loved God, her family, and her church family,” Ingram said. “She loved serving the community and serving God’s people. She definitely left a mark on the body of Christ.”

In the wake of the tragedy, many in the Christian community are turning to prayer, both for McCollum’s loved ones and for the broader church. Digital creator Rick Soup Campbell urged believers to remain spiritually vigilant.

“Pray for ministers of the gospel worldwide. We are under constant attack,” he wrote. “We must use the powerful, victorious weapons of warfare Christ has given us.”

While the circumstances surrounding McCollum’s death continue to unfold, her legacy of faith and service remains clear. Friends and fellow believers are holding tightly to the hope found in Christ, even amid heartbreak.

As one tribute poignantly expressed, though her life was tragically cut short, McCollum is now “with the Lord”—a truth that offers comfort to those mourning her loss. In the days ahead, her community is asking for continued prayers as they navigate grief and seek God’s peace in the midst of profound sorrow.