Jeff Ferdinand Anderson Jr.

Joyce Ferdinand Anderson, Jr., better known as Jeff, died peacefully at his brother’s home with family by his side on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
Jeff was born in Valdosta, Georgia on February 18, 1968, to parents Joyce Ferdinand Anderson, Sr. (Fred) and Doris Emily Shaw Anderson. He attended Valwood School and graduated in 1986 with honors. He was best friends with Teresa Carswell Howard throughout grade school and their friendship remained tried and true throughout their lives. Jeff obtained his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from Valdosta State University and a Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling from St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens, Florida. He also attended Florida State University and lived in Tallahassee, Florida where he met and married the love of his life, Dr. Craig McCollough, and they were together twenty-three years. Even after they went their separate ways their loving bond remained strong. Jeff worked as a Mental Health Counselor in Florida serving the aged and homeless populations. He also did individual counseling and was an ordained Interfaith Minister. He loved spending time with his family, friends and his cat “Beepers.” Anyone who knew Jeff always said he was fun to be around, he showed love and never met a stranger.
Unfortunately, he developed a rare kidney disease (IGA Nephropathy) in his mid-forties and lost both of his kidneys. He remained on dialysis until a donor kidney became available and had a successful transplant at Shand’s Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. The transplant allowed him to enjoy an additional ten years and have quality of life. The same disease returned and attacked the donor kidney at the graft site which then failed. He underwent dialysis for a year and eight months. He struggled to maintain his independence, live in his apartment in Tallahassee and spend time with Beepers. Through it all he maintained a positive outlook, a sense of humor and always found something to be grateful for despite the unrelenting challenges he faced thereby inspiring those around him. Jeff attributed his inner peace to his strong faith in God.
Jeff is survived by his mother; brothers Mixson Pafford Anderson (Stacy) and Justin Shaw Anderson (Mandy, mother of his children and close friend); nephews and nieces John Anderson (Addison) and Emily Anderson (Trey), Jackson Anderson, Garret Gruhn, and Lindsey Opitz (Adam); great niece and nephews Lilah Gruhn and Quinn Gruhn and Max Optiz. Other surviving relatives include aunts Libby Shaw, Zellna Shaw and Sandra Anderson; uncle John Anderson; cousins Vicki Shaw Hughes, Pam Shaw, Sheri Shaw, Kevin Shaw (Gayla), Jason Shaw (Katie), Sam Shaw (Christa), Allison Ray (Raymond), John Jay Anderson (Lael), Rob Anderson, Sissy Anderson, and Courtney Lipford along with other extended family members.

Jeff was predeceased by his father; his uncles Charles Shaw, Loyd Shaw, Jay Shaw and Robert Anderson, Jr.; aunts Tootsie Anderson and Margaret Ann Shaw; cousin Len Shaw; infant brother Charles Levin Anderson and his dogs Pepper and Ollie and his cat Miss Kitty.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you and special appreciation for Segal “Sage” Smith, Humana Case Manager who was his unwavering advocate and a tremendous source of support; Cathy Syringe, Paryx Home Care Nurse for her extra loving care and always checking on Jeff; Dr. Craig McCullough and Teresa Carswell Howard (Beau) for their supportive visits and help; David Cater for running errands, cooking pound cakes and dog sitting; Heart of Hospice, especially nurses Tracie Kinnebrew and Lynn Raines, for being so attentive and ensuring he had everything he needed to remain comfortable at home; and Music Funeral Services for their compassion and support.
The best way we can honor Jeff’s life and carry on his legacy is by loving others, being kind to them and encouraging them, thereby helping to make this world a better place. Also, caring for animals in need of nurture.
Jeff will be missed but like footprints in the sand, the imprint of his love will remain forever in our hearts. Donations may be made to the animal rescue of your choice, Heart of Hospice, Shand’s Hospital or your favorite charity. Per Jeff’s wishes, he will be cremated and the immediate family will have a private committal service. Condolences, pictures or your favorite Jeff memories may be conveyed online at www.musicfuneralservices.com .