Meredith Lee Tatum, 79, of Burgaw passed peacefully from his earthly life on Monday, October 6, 2014 at his home.

Lee was born March 23, 1935 in Pender County to Meredith Jerome and Carrie Mae Richards Tatum. Also lovingly remembered are his daughter, Laury Tatum Smith; brother, Everett "Sonny" Tatum; infant sister, Gladys Tatum, all who preceded Lee in death.

Lee is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Patricia "Pat" Everett Tatum; his sons, Kimble L. Tatum (Sue) and Michael D. Tatum (Darla); grandchildren, Kimberly Rivenbark Williams (Ronnie), C. T. Smith, Jr., Sarah Tatum, Jordan Tatum (Anais), Travis Tatum (Heather) and Gabrielle Tatum; and a sweet great granddaughter, Skyler Williams; sisters, Joyce Suggs (Buddy) and Iris Burgess; brother, Kenneth Dale Tatum; special sisters-in-law, Eleanor Stephens and Hester; and many extended family and friends.

As a young man Lee began his working career with Champion Parts Rebuilders and as a long distance truck driver which spanned 25 years. Lee then opened his own business, Lee Tatum Septic Tank Service, for which he was well known and respected.

Lee was a longtime faithful member of Long Creek Baptist Church where he served for many years as chairman of the Deacons. Just recently he was made an honorary life deacon.

Lee and Pat began a life long love in junior high and in high school Lee walked 12 miles three times a week from Cowpen Landing to visit Pat. Lee married Pat, the love of his life and they have been wonderful examples of love and Christian faith to their three children; six grandchildren and one great granddaughter. Lee was an avid hunter and fisherman until his best friend, S. D. "Deedie" Justice was killed, which ended Lee's sportsman activities. Lee loved animals (especially rabbits), flowers and all of God's creations. Most important in Lee's life was his daily walk with his Lord and sharing God's Word with others. Lee loved his family and was a thoughtful and generous provider. Lee will be missed by his family and many friends. He loved his Lord and Savior and lived his life with trust and faith. He never gave up hope of being healed and he was finally healed, at the feet of Jesus.

Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2014 at Long Creek Baptist Church with the Rev. Wayne L. Bateman and The Rev. Al Watkins officiating. Burial will follow in Malpass Memorial Cemetery at Long Creek Baptist Church. Casketbearers will be Jordan Jerome Tatum, C. T. Smith, Jr., Ronnie Williams, Kevin Dineen, Bennie Justice and John Justice. Honorary bearers will be Raymond Justice, Jay Porter, Jr. and Tony Mergenthaler.

The family will receive friends at the church on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. until hour of the service.

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

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Burgaw.
Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2014 at Long Creek Baptist Church with the Rev. Wayne L. Bateman and The Rev. Al Watkins officiating. Burial will follow in Malpass Memorial Cemetery at Long Creek Baptist Church.

The family will receive friends at the church on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. until hour of the service.