A GoFundMe campaign to support the family of Katherine Early McCollough has gained significant traction, raising over £27,000 by Thursday, April 2. This funding initiative was launched in the wake of McCollough’s untimely death and aims to assist her family with the financial burden resulting from her loss.
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Comedian Reggie Watts, known for his role on The Late Late Show with James Corden, took to Instagram on Wednesday to pay tribute to his partner. Alongside heartfelt memories, Watts confirmed the news of McCollough’s passing shortly after friends had initiated the fundraising campaign. With over 300 contributors, the GoFundMe quickly achieved £27,000 of its £30,000 target, reflecting the outpouring of support from the community.
In his emotional post, Watts shared touching reflections about McCollough’s life. “Katherine, I will miss you so much,” he wrote, revealing the struggles she faced during her life. He expressed gratitude for the profound impact she had on him, stating, “You opened up my vulnerability and taught me how to receive love from someone so close.”
Watts reminisced about the adventures they embarked upon together, celebrating McCollough’s vibrant spirit despite the challenges she encountered. “You had a natural radiance that people could feel from so far away,” he shared, underscoring the lasting impression she made on those around her. He also noted the beauty of the moments they shared, highlighting how she planned their time in Lima, which included trips to the coast, art excursions, and meals with friends.
In a poignant expression of love, Watts conveyed his sense of loss, stating, “You are a vital part of my transformation,” and vowed to carry her light with him forever. Further, he extended a heartfelt message, asking McCollough to greet his late mother, implying she would have embraced Katherine’s kindness and care for him.
The social media post drew messages of support from fellow comedians and friends, including Sarah Silverman, Imogen Heap, Kenan Thompson, and Judd Apatow. To honour McCollough, Watts shared an unscheduled performance on Instagram Live, performing a heartfelt rendition of the classic hit “Blueberry Hill,” while captioning it as “Katherine vibes.”
McCollough, remembered fondly by friends and loved ones as “the sweetest and funniest person” who ever lived, was described as “radiant and enchanting,” traits that were joked about in reference to her impressive hair. As of now, specific details regarding her age are not publicly available.
The GoFundMe campaign also highlighted the practical challenges her family now faces following her death. It elaborated on the complexities of arranging for McCollough’s remains to be transported internationally, a process noted as being particularly costly. The funds raised are intended to assist her mother and sister in managing these expenses, as well as covering costs associated with a service in her home state of South Carolina.
The campaign’s creators emphasised their understanding of each individual’s financial situation, asking for contributions only if one is able. They added a light-hearted touch in Katherine’s memory, suggesting that those unable to donate consider instead spending a small sum on a bag of arugula—something McCollough would have preferred.
In facing this devastating loss, friends and family are banding together to support one another while also raising awareness of the lasting legacy McCollough leaves behind. Her impact on those close to her, as shared by Watts and others, speaks volumes about her character and the joy she brought to the world.