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BORN
2000
DIED
2021
Tatum Gillette Obituary
2000-2021/ Our Son-Shine
Salt Lake City, Utah—Tatum Gillette, a talented musician who looked out for other people, died April 2, 2021, at the age of 21.
Tatum Michael Gillette was born February 4, 2000, at University of Utah Hospital, to Joey Thomas and David K. Gillette.
Tatum started studying piano at age 6; his mother, Joey, said he learned to read because his piano teacher wouldn't take him as a student until he could. Joey took Tatum to hear the Utah Symphony, even though the symphony doesn't allow children under 8 to attend; he sat attentively, and the ushers at Abravanel Hall got to know him as a regular.
Tatum primarily performed drums and keyboards, but could play any instrument he picked up. At 12, he started performing drums with Samba Fogo, the Utah dance group that specializes in Brazilian drum and dance. Also at 12, Tatum got to play drums with the rocker Dweezil Zappa, at The Knitting Factory in Boise, while Zappa was on tour performing the work of Frank Zappa — Tatum's favorite. As a teen, Tatum recorded a CD with one band, Interift, and toured Utah and Colorado as a member of another, The Haunted Mansons.
Tatum loved jazz, but his musical tastes ranged from Beethoven to Lou Reed. He was a kind, selfless person and a good friend. He looked out for the underdog, and was concerned about fairness and justice.
Tatum is survived by his best boy, Bones; mother, Joey Thomas; his father, David Gillette and Rebecca Gillette; his sisters, Ocia Gillette and Jayda Gillette; grandparents, Kenneth Robert and Janice Thomas; grandparents, Dave and Marilyn Gillette; grandfather Greg Schwantes; grandparents Jon and Gailene Hooper; and many relatives and friends who loved him dearly. His grandmother, Vicky Schwantes, died previously.
A celebration of Tatum's life will be held Thursday, April 22, 6 to 8 p.m., at Wheeler Historic Farm, 6351 S. 900 East, Murray. There will be an open mic, for anyone wishing to perform music or to speak. Following COVID-19 rules, masks are required.
If you are struggling with depression or substance abuse please reach out, you are loved and needed.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Tatum Gillette
Alayna Hilton
December 3, 2025
Thinking of you. Always.
Wendy
April 6, 2022
Sending all my love to you and your tree in the sun dear Tate.
Amy & Michael Conn
April 6, 2022
We always love Tatum´s eyes; Definitely windows to his spirit
Bo Dean
April 21, 2021
A bright talent taken too soon.
Sending love and light.
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Bob & Trinity Benson
April 15, 2021
I remember Tatum and his band mates playing at Desert Rocks a few years ago. And, I’ll never forget how he came and helped us move when we were struggling.
Amy Conn
April 13, 2021
Talented young man. Bright eyes! Bright smile!
Vicky Wason
April 13, 2021
What a beautiful boy! I remember hearing him play music at the OC talent show. Such a natural music maker. Your OC family will be here for you during your grief. All my love to your family--Vicky Wason
Leslie Means
April 13, 2021
Tatum was talented, kind, humble, funny and thoughtful. I'm very sad that he's gone. My love to Joey and the girls. - Leslie Means
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