Marion Franklin Tatum, 94, of Watha passed from this earth to his heavenly home on Wednesday, January 1, 2014 at his home with his beloved family at his bedside.

He was born December 27, 1919 in Pender County, one of nine children born to James A. and Abigail Sears Tatum. Also lovingly remembered are his siblings, Clarence Tatum, Chancie Tatum, Eva King Mercer, Julius Tatum, Abner Tatum, Meltzer Tatum, Taylor Tatum, and George Tatum, all who preceded Marion in death.

Marion is survived by his beloved wife of 73 years, Naomi Dale Tatum; daughters, Patricia T. Levitan and Sandra T. West (Carey); grandchildren, Scott West and Beth Williams (Daniel); and many extended family and friends.

Marion was retired from NC Department of Transportation and was a faithful member of Mt. Holly Baptist Church. Marion's greatest desire in life was that his family and friends all accept Jesus Christ as their Savior so that someday all will be reunited in God's heavenly kingdom.

Marion was the BEST husband, daddy, granddaddy and friend anyone could ask for. He was a hard worker and for many years he worked from sunup to sundown and beyond. Enjoying all of God's nature, Marion loved raising a garden and his beautiful flowers, often sharing the fruits of his labors with others. He always lived a simple life and leaves a legacy of the importance of God, family and friends. Marion says to us today, "Remember me not with tears of sorrow, but with happy memories, for my destiny on earth is complete."

Funeral service will be at 12 noon on Saturday, January 4, 2014 at Mt. Holly Baptist Church with The Rev. Merrell McKoy and The Rev. Danny Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Casketbearers will be Carey West, Daniel Williams, Ray Bradshaw, David Bradshaw, Trey Odom and Bradley Odom. Honorary bearers will be Garland Odom, Jr., Glenda Odom Hurley, Ricky Odom and members of Senior Men's Sunday School Class of Mt. Holly Baptist Church.

The family will receive friends at 11:00 a.m. at the church on Saturday until hour of the service.

Well done thou good and faithful servant, enter into your rest.

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Funeral service will be at 12 noon on Saturday, January 4, 2013 at Mt. Holly Baptist Church with The Rev. Merrell McKoy and The Rev. Danny Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
The family will receive friends at 11:00 a.m. at the church on Saturday until hour of the service.