James Tatum, Jr.

On May 16^th1945, Dorothy L. Tatum and James Tatum Sr. welcomed their son James Tatum Jr. into the world. He was raised by his mother’s sister and brother-in-law Kenneth and Annie Peoples. He attended and graduated from Rochester area schools. He also attended various Colleges and Universities, graduating with an Associate’s degree from Faith Temple Christian College and a certificate in child development from Mira Costa Community College in Oceanside California. James was married to his wife, Petrease Tatum for 39 years. Both have been active members of Crossroads Community Church since August 2017 when they arrived in Statesboro Georgia. They have also been long-term members of The Rise Church of Oceanside, formally Faith Temple Christian Center for 33 years.

James was an educator at Rochester Area Schools, Oceanside Unified School District, and Faith Temple Christian Schools. James also served this country faithfully in the United States Army. He served as a medic while enlisted and, served in the Vietnam War where he was wounded while in service. 

James went home to be with the Lord on April 22^nd, 2024, he was preceded in death by his mother Dorothy L Tatum, his father James Tatum Sr., and his foster parents, Annie L. and Kenneth Peoples. His brother Kenneth L. Mathews, his sister Barbra J. Ferguson, brother William C. Tatum, and sister Judy C. Love.

James is survived by his loving devoted wife Petrease Tatum. Son and Daughter in love Alonzo L. and Tomika M. Tatum. Son and Daughter in love, Jason L. and Jodi N. Tatum. Brother and sister in love Willie and Marsha Ellison. Sister in love, Jean O. Mathews. Sister Tammy Smith and Iretha Dillard. Ten loving grandchildren, Jayna, Azariyah, Aleigha, Zaire, Jai, Zoelle, Averi, Taelor, Taj, and Cali Tatum. His godchildren, Darniece Strickland, Andrea Villegas, LaTia Witcher, and Jaylen Bledsoe. A host of niece's nephews, and friends.