Rev. Troy Allen Tatum

Rev. Troy Allen Tatum, 51, of Raleigh, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2026, at his home after a courageous battle with ALS.

Born in Clarke County, Georgia, Troy was raised in Atlanta, where he developed a deep and abiding faith that would guide his life and ministry. He attended Georgia State University, earning his bachelor’s degree, and went on to receive his Master of Divinity from Emory University.

While in school, Troy began living out his calling through mission work, traveling to Andros Island in the Bahamas, where he shared the love of Jesus with children through Vacation Bible School. That passion for missions and service continued throughout his life, shaping both his ministry and his relationships.

Rev. Tatum faithfully served congregations across the Southeast, including First Christian Church of Winder (Winder, GA), a brief period in Missouri, First Christian Church (Wilson, NC), Union Christian (Watkinsville, GA), and First Christian Church (Birmingham, AL), before concluding his full-time ministry as Senior Minister of Hillyer Memorial Christian Church in Raleigh, NC. He retired in 2022 following his diagnosis with ALS.

Following his diagnosis, Troy faced ALS with remarkable courage and unwavering faith. Rather than retreating, he became a passionate advocate for those affected by ALS, working closely with ALS United of North Carolina and participating in statewide awareness efforts, including community walks and outreach events in Raleigh. He used his voice not only to encourage others walking similar journeys, but also to help bring greater attention to the urgent need for research and support. Through his advocacy, he engaged with community leaders and elected officials, helping elevate awareness of ALS and the challenges faced by patients and families across North Carolina.

Even in the midst of his illness, Troy continued to reflect the faith he so often preached.

“Worshipping God together is central to who we are as people of faith and followers of Jesus. In worship, we bring our whole selves to God, as we gather together to hear the Good News proclaimed. We respond to the gospel with the gifts of bread and cup as we share in communion. Nourished and empowered at God’s Table, we are sent forth to live in peace, love, and service.”

Troy had a deep love for music and was a gifted musician and guitarist. He wrote and produced many songs that reflected his faith and life experiences, continuing to share the message of Jesus through music. His work remains available on platforms such as Apple Music and Spotify, a lasting testament to his creativity and devotion.

He also cherished time with his family and took great joy in traveling throughout the continental United States, creating lasting memories along the way. Troy was actively involved in Christian camps over the years, including Christmount in Black Mountain, Camp Christian in Gordon, GA, and Camp Caroline in Arapahoe, NC, where he poured into the lives of countless young people.

Those who knew Troy will remember his gentle spirit, his thoughtful words, and his ability to make others feel seen, valued, and loved. His legacy of faith, service, advocacy, and compassion will live on through his family, his ministry, and the many lives he touched.

Rev. Tatum is survived by his wife of 19 years, Leigh Ann Tatum; children, Luke and Riley Tatum, both of the home; parents, Sharon and Hal Tatum of Eatonton, GA; brother, Bryan Tatum of Senoia, GA; nephew, Tanner Tatum of Newnan, GA; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mary Frances and Gary Wall of Winder, GA; along with extended family and numerous friends.

Friends may visit with the family from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., on Monday, April 13, 2026 at First Christian Church of Winder. A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at First Christian Church of Winder. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Tatum Family ALS Fund. Checks can be mailed to Hillyer Memorial Christian Church, 718 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27603.

Maddox Memorial Home, Winder, is entrusted with the arrangements.