Walter "John" Louis Tatum

Walter “John” Louis Tatum, 85, of Prospect Hill, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, April 6, 2025. A native of Caswell County, he was the son of the late Clifton and Vertie Tatum. John retied from the North Carolina Department of Corrections where he worked as a Detention Officer. When he wasn't working, he found joy in raising tobacco and cultivating a beautiful garden. His love for nature was only matched by his love for family. He was known for spoiling his nieces and nephews, and his generous spirit touched everyone who knew him. John was admired by many, especially the younger men in his community who looked up to him as a mentor. His kindness, humility, and willingness to always lend a helping hand made him a beloved figure in the area. Whether it was offering a word of advice or simply spending time with those in need, John gave selflessly to his community. He was a member of Lea Bethel Baptist Church, where he found great joy in singing in the choir. His faith was a cornerstone of his life.

In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Annie “Jeanette” Tatum; his sisters, Brenda Worsham and Vertie Lee Aherron; his brothers, Duke Tatum, Leonard Tatum, and Wayne Tatum; and his brother-in-laws, Haywood “Red” Oakley, Kenneth Oakley, and Edd Hassell Oakley.

He is survived by his sister, Odell Carter; his sister-in-laws, Lounell Talley and Pat Clayton; his brother-in-laws, Tom Oakley and Danny Oakley; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held to honor his life on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Lea Bethel Baptist Church beginning at 3:00pm. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, donation can be made to AuthoraCare Hospice: 918 Chapel Hill Road Burlington, NC 27253.