Lonnie B. Tatum of Morrilton, beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, went to be with his heavenly father on February 14, 2009, at the age of 83.
He was born May 16, 1925, in Bauxite, Arkansas. He is preceded in death by his loving wife Clara Tatum, parents, Lawrence and Pearl Tatum, brother Wayne Tatum, sister Antonia Harding and an infant son, Robert Bryan Tatum.
He is survived by three daughters, Mary Jack Tatum, of North Little Rock, Betty Jo (B.J.) and husband Gary Himes of Little Rock, Terry and husband Eddy Moore of Morrilton and a son, John Ross Tatum and wife Kay of Little Rock; granddaughter Christy and husband Brandon Hoyt of Morrilton; grandson, Robert and wife Pam Moore of Morrilton and grandson, John Ross and granddaughter Malissa Tatum of Little Rock; great- granddaughter, Tyleigh Brooke Hoyt, great-grandson, Brody Hoyt and great-grandson, Joshua Moore. He is also survived by two sisters, Vienne Johnson of Benton and Susie Rankin of Oklahoma and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Lonnie was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, a charter member of Faith Baptist Church in North Little Rock. Lonnie worked as a real estate broker, former owner of Tatum and Tatum Realty finishing his carrier at American Realty. He was affectionately known as the ?land man?. Lonnie enjoyed showing land across Conway County. Prior to his real estate career he retired as a sheet metal mechanic.
Lonnie was a World War II veteran and served in the Navy. He served God, his family and Country throughout his life. He was also an avid Razorback fan, his family will miss hearing him call the hogs and coaching every play from his recliner.
Funeral services were at 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 18, at Bethel Baptist Church in Morrilton with Bro. Jim Mullins officiating. Burial followed at the Wolfe Cemetery in Oppelo. Arrangements were made by North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary and guest register at www.nlrfh.com.
The family would like to express a special thanks to Briarwood Rehabilitation Center and Nursing Home for their tender care, especially Tina, Lynne, Rose and
Mertice. Thanks also to Sharon Moore for her faithful friendship to Lonnie.
To order
memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Lonnie Tatum, please visit our
flower store.
In light of increasing scams, all guestbook entries will now be approved by us. At Smith Family Funeral Homes, safeguarding the privacy and personal memories of your loved ones for family and friends is our top priority. We appreciate your understanding and patience.