James Thomas Tatum

James Thomas "Bear" Tatum, 70, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at his residence in Nettleton.  He was  born in Lee County on October 26, 1955 to William Houston Tatum and Clara Bell (Fowler) Tatum. He was a retired supervisor in the furniture industry and spent his off time as a handyman along side his brother-in-law/best friend, Terry "Hoochie" Dickey. He was of Church of God faith. James enjoyed working on things, he always welcomed a challenging project. He enjoyed watching Nascar and going to car shows. He loved his corvette especially when it was displayed  in parades. His greatest enjoyment came in being with his family especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He will be best remembered by everyone as a "jack of all trades".

Funeral services will be 1 pm on Friday, March 20, 2026 at Crosspointe Fellowship Church in Nettleton with Bro. Phillip Carr officiating. Burial will be at Jones Chapel Cemetery. Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home of Nettleton has been entrusted with arrangements.

Visitation will be on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 4-7 pm at the church and on Friday prior to service from 11:30 - 1pm.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Tatum, one daughter, Tina Tatum Alred (Brad), one son, James Tyler Tatum (Robyn), 9 grandchildren, Mackenzie Gillentine (Cody), Tatum Alred (Madison), Silas Tatum, Walker Tatum, Madeline Tatum, Kylee Dykes (Tripp), Kloee Capps, Karlee Capps, Kaleb "Bob" Capps, 3 great grandchildren, Monroe Gillentine, Ridge Gillentine, Reece Alred and several nieces and nephews.

He was prececed in death by his parents, step-father, Ellis Randolph and his siblings, Thomas Tatum (Melba), Betty Shankle (A. C.) and Buddy Tatum.

Pallbearers will be Terry "Hoochie" Dickey, Tatum Alred, Silas Tatum, Walker Tatum, Kaleb Capps and Cody Gillentine.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Brad Alred, Andy & Brad Tatum, Mike & Bit Shankle and Mitch McClain.

Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family at www.tisdalelannmemorialfh.com