Tadarius Marquise Massey

Today, we gather to celebrate the life of Tadarius Marquise Massey, also known as T.D., Tad, Tadpole, Nemo, Elmo, and Walkk. He was T.D. to his mom; Tad to his uncles, aunts, and cousins; Tadpole to his Auntie Sue; Nemo and Elmo to his cousins; and Walkk to his homeboys. All his affectionate nicknames were given to him by those who loved him.
If you had to describe Tadarius with one word, it would be PERSEVERANCE, which is defined as determining to keep on going in the face of setbacks and challenges. Tadarius was born to his mother, Susanna Massey, on a Sunday afternoon at 12:08 p.m. on December 19, 2004, at Memorial Health University Hospital in Savannah, GA. Although born prematurely, weighing only one pound twelve ounces, Tadarius PERSEVERED and thrived because after only two days in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), our miracle baby was breathing on his own. What a fighter and an overcomer!
As a baby, he PERSEVERED to live being born prematurely; as a toddler, he PERSEVERED to overcome his health challenges; as an adolescent, he PERSEVERED to overcome peer pressure; as a teenager, he PERSEVERED to excel in high school by maintaining his grades, conduct, and passing his tests to graduate. Tadarius was his loving and devoted mother Susanna's only child, who was her pride and joy. The two were inseparable, always together. When you saw one you saw the other. They were two peas in a pod. He was her shadow as well as her protector. They loved and cared for each other deeply with a bond that will never be broken, even in death. He will forever be her Sunshine and the apple of hereye.
Tadarius brought so much love into this world. He was a loving child who often demonstrated it by giving hugs to everyone. He was a handsome young man with a beautiful smile that melted your heart. His big brown eyes could light up any room as they sparkled as bright as the glistening sun and as brilliant as the moon. Also, he was intelligent who loved building and putting things together whether it was Legos or model cars. In fact, he wanted to become an auto mechanic after graduation.
Tadarius was energetic and athletic. As a youth, he played flag football and T-ball. As a student at Maitland Middle School, Tadarius was a member of the track team, competing in many track meets. Also, while at Maitland M.S., he was a Golden Hawks chorus member performing in concerts and recitals. While attending Maryville High School in Maryville, TN, Tadarius was a wide receiver for the Rebels football team.
Tadarius recently graduated from Ocoee High School on May 30, 2024. His PERSEVERANCE and hard work paid off as he walked across the stage to receive his diploma. This great achievement was a joyous and momentous occasion for Tadarius, as well as for his mother and his family. His family celebrated this milestone with him at the restaurant of his choice, Outback Steakhouse. Not only was his family celebrating him, but also present was a group of retired schoolteachers who serenaded Tadarius with several songs and dances. They were just as proud of him and his accomplishment as his family was. They brought a big smile to his face and Tadarius was even rocking to the beat.
Tadarius was an industrious young man who began working at the age of fifteen. His first job was at a Zaxby's restaurant in Maryville, TN. After he started working and making his own money, Tadarius never stopped working. He continued working for several other fast-food restaurants and his most recent job was at a Subway restaurant. As Tadarius' Subway manager saw his dedication and commitment to his job, she entrusted him with more job responsibilities which he performed very well. Tadarius also had a side hustle to earn additional money. He offered his services to his uncles, aunts, and others in the neighborhood by cutting grass, raking leaves, washing cars, or using his muscles to help them to move.
Tadarius as a young teenager accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior under the leadership of Pastors Andrew & Dr. Cheryl Johnson, at Rose of Sharon Life Changing Ministries. During that time he was also baptized. He actively participated in the Rose B.U.D.S Youth Ministry serving as a Youth Usher and participating in Game Nights and Teen Bible Study at Rose of Sharon. His claim to fame was winning the pie eating contest at the Fall Festival.
The Bible says in Psalm 116: 15, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." Tadarius was precious to his heavenly Father, his loving mother, and to all those who loved him. Sadly, our precious and beloved Tadarius was called home on August 14, 2024, at 1:30 pm to live eternally with his heavenly Father. The Good Lord allowed Tadarius to spend 19 years, 7 months, 26 days, 1 hour, 22 minutes on earth with us. To God be the Glory for His wonderful blessings!
Tadarius was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Garnie L. and Robert L. Massey, Sr.
Tadarius leaves precious memories to a loving and devoted Mother, Susanna Massey; Uncles: Gregory Grant, Robert Massey, Jr.; Torrie Massey, Sr. (Nafeesah); JoeNathan Massey; and Shiron Massey. Grandmother: Theresa Tucker; Aunts: Lynnetta White and Lytonia Tucker; God Mother: Shamehia Wynn, and a host of loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.