Michael Tatum
Michael “Mike” Earl Tatum was born February 18, 1944 in Davidson County, Tennessee, a son born to the late Bob & Hazel (Sexton) Tatum and departed this life April 2, 2026 at the age of 82 years, 1 month, and 15 days.
He was united in marriage to Elaine Taylor Tatum on June 27, 1969. They shared 57 years together building a life grounded in family and commitment. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by brother, Phillip Tatum.
He lived a life defined by service, leadership, and a deep commitment to his community and faith. For many years, he dedicated himself to education in Macon County, serving as a respected vice principal and teacher at Macon County High School. His passion for shaping young lives extended beyond the classroom, as he also coached basketball and baseball, inspiring students through both academics and athletics. In his earlier career, he served as both teacher and principal at Westside Elementary, where he laid a strong foundation for generations of learners.
Following a distinguished career, he retired from the Macon County Board of Education, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to students and colleagues alike. His faith was a cornerstone of his life. For 49 years, he faithfully served as a Senior Adult Sunday School teacher at Lafayette Missionary Baptist Church, guiding others with wisdom, compassion, and a steadfast devotion to God’s word. He was also a member of Meadorville Missionary Baptist Church, where his presence and fellowship were deeply valued.
Beyond his professional and spiritual commitments, he remained actively involved
in his community. He was a member of the Macon County Retired Teachers Association and the Lions Club, and he served on the Board of Directors for the Macon County Farm Bureau. Through these roles, he continued to give back, support others, and strengthen the community he loved. He will be remembered as a devoted educator, a faithful servant, and a man whose life touched countless others through his kindness, leadership, and enduring commitment.
Survivors besides his wife, Elaine include: daughter, LaDonna Little & husband,
Paul of White House; son, Michael Tatum & wife, YongOk of Songtan, South Korea; 3 grandchildren, Jonathan Swaffer & wife, Brittany, Angela Tatum & Justin Tatum; 2 great-grandchildren, Landon Swaffer & Harley Marlow; 3 step-grandchildren, Leah Brackin & husband, David, Pauline Coyne & husband, Brandon, Jacob Little; 3 step-great-grandchildren; brother, Robert “Pat” Tatum & wife, Lila of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; sisters-in-law, Ann Driver of Lafayette, Ruth Gregory of Hendersonville, & several nieces and nephews. He will be sadly missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Arrangements entrusted to Anderson & Son Funeral Home Directors, Lafayette, TN.
