Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Al Tatum Obituary
"His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord." Matthew 25:23 MISHAWAKA - He was born on March 28, 1961, to the blessed union of the late Deacon and Mother Ernestine (Watson) Tatum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Elder Al Brent Tatum was the youngest of 16 children. He received his formal education in the Milwaukee Public School System. Elder Tatum received his spiritual education and training from his parents who instilled in him the love of God and dedication to ministry. Even as a young child in Sunshine Band he was encouraged by the late Elder C.B. Stokes to be a leader. He enlisted other children to help raise money to help support the ministry. Elder Tatum attended North Central Bible College in Minnesota and received an internship at PTL. Pastor Tatum accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior as a young man. He was ordained an Elder by the late Bishop P.J. Henderson. Just as Jesus called the disciples to become fishers of men, Elder Tatum's fishing expeditions for souls took him to many cities and even to Alaska for salmon. He was a self-taught musician, learning to play the organ by ear. Elder Al Brent Tatum met the love of his life, Ms. Debra Steen of South Bend, IN, to whom he wed in holy matrimony on July 24, 1989. Their union was blessed with three beautiful children, Talesha, Tevin and Trenton. He enjoyed cooking and entertaining and always inviting others into their home. He received an award of Service by the South Bend Community School Corporation Career and Technical Education Department that was presented on September 15, 2006. He provided several years of loyal service at the Dismas House of Kansas City, MO. In 1994 Elder Tatum moved to Kansas City, MO, where he was called to pastor in Atkins, KS. The Tatum family then relocated to Indianapolis, IN, in 1999 where his dedication to ministry flourished. Yet another move in destiny was made in 2005 when Mishawaka, IN, became home. In December of the same year, he was appointed pastor at Praise Fellowship Church of God in Christ by the late Bishop Milton Hall, where Elder Tatum remained until he was called home. The final chapter of the life of Pastor Al Brent Tatum was written early Thursday morning, June 19, 2008. Receiving his heavenly call to eternal reward for work well-done - the book of life was closed on Sunday, June 22, 2008, in South Bend Memorial Hospital. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved and devoted wife of 17 years, Debra; one adoring daughter, Talesha Jasmine; two treasured sons, Tevin Xavier and Trenton Rashad; seven sisters, Zenobia (John) Williams, Isa Tatum, JoEdna Braxton, Minnie Tatum and Jeanette Tatum, all of Milwaukee, WI, Vernell Davis of Oceanside, CA, and Glenda (Sherman) Claypool of Bayside, WI; six brothers, Pastor Osie (Shirley) Tatum Jr., Elder Waymon (Sharon) Tatum, all of Brown Deer, WI, and Jeffery (Ometress) Tatum, Marvin (Joann) Tatum and Brian (Patricia) Tatum, all of Milwaukee, WI, and Phalanders (Cheryl) Tatum of Franklin, WI; a host of loving nieces, nephews and other relatives; the Praise Fellowship Church of God in Christ family; and many special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Deacon Osie Sr. and Mother Ernestine Tatum, former Supervisor of Northwest Wisconsin Jurisdiction; a sister; Janice Peterson; and a brother, George Troy Tatum. Visitation for Pastor Al Brent Tatum will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, June 27. Memorial service will begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. Jurisdictional Home Going Celebration will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2008, viewing from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and funeral services to begin at 11:00 a.m., with Bishop Mark Blade officiating. (All services will be held in Saints Memorial Church of God in Christ, located at 331 Liberty Street, South Bend, IN). Memorials may be made to The Children of Al Brent Tatum Fund, in care of Ms. Debra Tatum at P.O. Box 1197, Mishawaka, IN 46546. Pastor Al Brent Tatum will be laid to rest at Highland Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alford's Mortuary where messages of condolence may be e-mailed to [email protected], c/o the Tatum family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Al Tatum
Candice Macklin
July 14, 2008
How well do I remember Eld. A. Tatum during the Northwest Wisconsin State Choir Days. Also remember the short period of time he was the minsiter of music for the same jurisdiction. I remember his very keen sense of humor on a couple of state choir trips. To Debbie, just want to say I'm praying for you and the entire church family. Just know that you are greatly loved and God will see you through this difficult time.
Ronald and Jeanette Newhouse
July 13, 2008
We are praying for the family of Elder Tatum and the Praise Fellowship Family. God has not left you and He will see you through. The Apostle Paul remindes us; We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord." Corninthians 5:8. He loves us so much he engraved us in the palms of His hands (Isaiah 49:16).
In His Grip,
Minister Ron and Sister Jeanette Newhouse.
Chuck/Pat Dugger
July 12, 2008
Debbie,Sorry we just heard of our Bro. Al going home. WE count it a pleasure to have known the Tatum family,and the joy of learning from you.HIS unseen Hand.
July 12, 2008
7-12-08 Debbie,Sorry we just heard of our Bro. Al going home. WE count it a pleasure to have known the Tatum family,and the joy of learning f
Fisher Family
July 1, 2008
To the Tatum Family, our prayer's are with each of you during this time. Remember to continue to look to the hills from which cometh your help and know that your help comes from the Lord. We love you and if you need anything please don't hesitate to call.
Maurice and Betty Howard
June 30, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Kimberly Anderson-Peake
June 30, 2008
To the Tatum/Davis family, May God bless and keep you in your time of need. To be absence from the body is to be present with the Lord, our Savior Jesus Christ!!
Ravay Smith
June 30, 2008
I was not able to attend the funeral but all my love and condolensces to the family. Pastor Tatum I'm happy you get to be with God but sad we won't be able to share your prescence.
Love Always,
Ravay
Minister Kenneth and Deba Lee
June 30, 2008
To the Tatum family: may our God comfort and keep you in this time of bereavement; you are in my prayers
Cheryl Bush Mays
June 30, 2008
Debbie, My prayers and thoughts are with you and your childlren durning this most difficult time. Please know that we are praying for you in Arizona
Charan Richards
June 29, 2008
Debbie'
Please know that you and your children are fervently in my prayers. Continue to look to the hills where cometh our help. God is forever faithful.
Evang. Victoria Jackson
June 28, 2008
To First Lady Debra and family,
Just wanted to extend my condolences to you during this difficult time. I knew Eld. Al Tatum for many years. He was a true Man of God. I will cherish the memories of his laughter and humor. He will be greatly missed. Unfortunately, we at Christ Temple C.O.G.I.C. in Milwaukee are faced with the recent passing of our beloved pastor H.B. Genous as well. What a joy it was for Eld. Al and Pastor Genous to meet together in Heaven - They are rejoicing and praising God.
May the Lord continue to strengthen you and the entire church and Tatum family. To be absent from the body; is to be present with the Lord.
Pastor Al, you will be missed.
Be Blessed
Susana Weesner
June 27, 2008
Mother Debra & Children,
Pastor Al will be missed. I am proud to say that I had the privilege to sit under and learn from his vast knowledge, that he always gave to all willingly. He truly had a special pastors heart for all that needed to be done. He was willing to listen when ever anyone needed to talk. From his vast personal time he spent with our Lord he knew what to say and what wisdom to impart to others. Pastor Al would encourage and comfort and always be willing to pray for each and every need. I just want you to know that I thank God for allowing me to know and pray for one of His personal chosen ones. I pray that with the time God has chosen for you and the children to remain working He will keep you close and strengthen you. I know that He has many great things yet for all of you in the future.
Cherelyn Williams
June 27, 2008
Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Rev's Clyde/Audrey Harris
June 27, 2008
Dear Sis.Tatum,
As you know, It all starts with GOD!
Nothing is more fulfilling than using your God-giving gifts to serve and help meet the needs of others in this world and in God's family. Life on earth is a test and a trust James 1:12, blessed are those who endure when they are TESTED,when they pass the test,they will receive the CROWN OF LIFE, that God has promised. God TRUSTED Pastor Tatum with Gifts to minister to his family and Gods people. Remember, Life is a temporary assignment in which Pastor Tatum has fulfilled his purpose and assignment here on earth. As he rest, his works will follow him.
Love you all dearly,and praying for you and family.
Pastor Clyde/Dr. Audrey L. harris.
Eld. Rob & Sis. Donna Fisher
June 27, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Flora M Robinson
June 27, 2008
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
June 27, 2008
To The Tatum Family:
My prayers are with the family during this time of transition.
Brother Cesley& Betty Wright
E. R. Owens
June 27, 2008
Beloved Tatum Family,
Our prayers are with you during this time of transistion.
Village Ministries Inc
Pastor E. Ramona Owens
WWW.Village.Mysite.Com
June 27, 2008
Karen Bell- Milwaukee, WI
Voices of Praise
Kathy Harris
June 27, 2008
You are in my thoughts and Prayers. Besides Pastor Tatum being someone who loved God, I also remember him as being a friendly person, who loved to laugh. May God's Peace rest with you during this time.
Terry & Doretha Dansby
June 27, 2008
Tatum Family
our prayers are with you during the transition of our special friend Al.
WE WILL MISS OUR SPECIAL FRIEND!
God bless you!
Milton L Hall Jr
June 27, 2008
Our prayers and a great anticipation of being with you again someday in that place called Glory, my wife Glenda and I are praying for this great Tatum family.
Anna Millsaps
June 26, 2008
Dear Sis. Tatum: I talked to God today and I asked Him to come in and bless you and your children. That He would, I knew, but I just wanted Him to know that your friends and the friends of your beautiful parents were praying that He would gently hold you all in His hands. We don't say we understand, but God is awesome, so we know His plans for you will also be wonderful. Sis. Tatum I pray that the beautiful young woman I have known so long will know that we all love you and care. We are here to be of any assistance. May the God I love and serve comfort you as you walk down that long lane knowing that some day you and your husband will once again be together. God bless and console you. There is just another star in God's church up there now.
Mother Anna Millsaps and Sis. Yolanda Millsaps
Dana Harris Carter
June 26, 2008
Dear Sis. Debbie:
I just received the call regarding Pastor Al going home to be with the Lord. Although it's been many years since i've seen you both I always felt like we were all family in the church world back home. You were a Pastor's daughter such as myself. Our parents were friends, as well, throughout the years. I remember Pastor Al when he was a very shy teenager/young adult and i was in Pastor Waymon & Sharon's wedding in Milwaukee. At that time none of us knew how the Lord would call him into the ministry and how bold in the Lord he would become as a Godly man. I'm so happy that he predestined for you and he to ultimately become one. Time really does go by fast and life is very short but, through it all, please remember that God still has everything under control. My heart and prayers go out to you and your children at this time. Please know that all of my family, Bishop & Dr. Audrey Harris (parents), all of my siblings and their spouses here in Atlanta, GA love you and will forever keep you before the Lord. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do otherwise.
Your Sister in Christ,
Dana L. Harris Carter & Husband , Darrryl Carter
Atlanta, Georgia
Cynthia Williams
June 26, 2008
God Bless and keep the Steen family and their children. Debbie, I will keep you and your children lifted up in prayer. God is able!
Eldeer A. Jeffrey LaValley
June 26, 2008
My prayers are with the family during this time of transition.
Neline Wooley
June 26, 2008
Debra, please know that we love you all so very much. I re-read Al's sermon he preached after the passing of his father. So simple, yet filled with wisdom and comfort... "The Lord is My Shepherd". No words I can write here will take away the hurt of losing the one you love. I just want to share this little praise which I personally know will see you through these tough times... "Love lifted me. Love lifted me. When nothing else could help, Love lifted me..." When all is quiet, please contact me [email protected]. Love you much...
Pastor Chuck Moorer
June 26, 2008
In times like these there are no words to express what you truly feel or think. One gets angry, confused, frustrated, and even call into question God, and his plans for our lives. It is in these times our faith is truly challanged.
Debbie, God said he would never leave or forsake us. God will look out for you and your family, be your refuge and strength, and provide you the peace that surpasses all understanding.
Be encouraged. God has put your husband "AL" on another job assignment. With warmest regards
Chuck & Crystal Moorer
Minister Curtis and Marilyn Bethany
June 26, 2008
God be with Debra and her kids. They need you more than ever now. We are praying for you and will miss Elder Tatum especially his anointed preaching. Time brings on a change and without God we can do nothing. We are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus. The Lord be with you and may He continue to smile upon Debra and family all the days of their lives. We love you and will never stop praying...
Denise McGhee/Hoskin
June 26, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Megan Davis
June 26, 2008
Although I still can't believe my "Bunky Al" is gone, I know that our family is strong and will make it through this extremely difficult time. Auntie Debbie, Tevin, Trenton, and Talesha, I love you all SO much and will be forever praying for you.
Elder Ortney Edwards
June 26, 2008
To the Tatum Family,
I want to convey my condolence to the Tatum Family in the passing away of Pastor Tatum. I pray that the Lord will strength and ecourage you and the family in the days ahead. God bless you.
Elder Ortney & Missy Leiliani Edwards and Family
Tequilla Wolfing (Adkins)
June 26, 2008
At times like these, words just don't seem to be enough. To the Tatum family and my Praise Fellowship family, my prayers are with you all. While I only had the pleasure to sit under Pastor Tatum's preaching a few times, I knew from those few times that Pastor Tatum was a man of great wisdom and he possessed an unwaivering love for Christ. He took time after each service to come over and chat as though I'd been there every Sunday. While this is not an easy transition, you can find comfort in knowing that everything our God does is good. He will give you peace in the midst of the storm and in all things, God gets the glory. When all else fails, praise your way though! I love you all!
Carrie Harris
June 26, 2008
To the Family my prayers are with you: I am so glade that I had the opportunity to meet Elder Tatum. I know Heaven rejoiced when he arrived. Debbie prayers and time will help to ease the hurt. God will hold you in his arms. I love you.
Pamela Kirk-Lee & Family
June 26, 2008
To the Tatum family, sending our love and prayers to you. May God strengthen you during this difficult time, and may you find comfort
in this passage.
"Psalm 23"
The LORD is my sheherd;I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yea, though I walk throught the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surley goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Love,
Connie Powell
June 26, 2008
To Debra and Family; My prayers and condolences are with you and the entire family.
Barbara (BJ) Davis
June 26, 2008
Debbie, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Words cannot express the joy that you and family always shared. I will always remember the shut-in that was such a blessing. The precious memories will always be there, but God eases all pain. Love you much
Danielle Davis
June 26, 2008
I just want to say that I am really going to miss Uncle Al! Debbie please know that we are always praying for you and the family. Weaping will endure for a night, but joy will come in the morning. Love you always,
Mary Winters
June 26, 2008
My prayers are with you Debbie and the family
thank's for the opportunity to minister to the PraiseFellowship family
Evangelist Mother Winters
Sis Vanessa Williams
June 26, 2008
I am so glad that I had the priviledge to serve under Pastor Tatum me and my family. We will miss you greatly Pastor. Debbie we love you and will always be there for you.
pat rencher
June 26, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
Phyllis Hogan
June 26, 2008
Debbie, you and the children are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you and will continue to pray for you in the difficult days ahead. Elder Hogan and I are only a phone call away. Remember, weeping may endure for a night, but JOY will come in the morning. Hold on to the Lord because your morning will come.
Trina Jackson
June 26, 2008
I am so grateful that I got to enjoy several sermons from Pastor Tatum. He always made a point to come and speak to me after service, and that truly meant a lot. I will continue to pray for your family.....
Nicki Williams
June 26, 2008
To the Tatum Family - I love you all. I am sorry for this loss. Pastor Tatum was a great man and did many great works. He will be greatly missed, but we have to think of all the good times we had with him and thank God that we were able to share space and time with such a wonderful man. God Bless you all and may He enrichly keep you.
BARBARA L Moore
June 26, 2008
My prayers are with the Tatum family. Pastor Tatum was more than a shephard, he was a friend and he will truly be missed. "Well done my good and faithful servent..........."
Michele Bush
June 26, 2008
Whew Lord I just don't know where to begin or what to say. I will miss my "Bunky" Al. He was such a great person always full of fun. I cherish every moment I shared with him and am thankful for all of the wonderful memories. I am praying for my family, I don't understand it but I do know that God is faithful and will see us through.
Showing 1 - 48 of 48 results
Make a Donation
in Al Tatum's name
Memorial Events
for Al Tatum
How to support Al's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Al Tatum's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
