"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." Acts 4:12, KJV

Rocky Mount -

Edward Tatum "E.T.", age 94, departed from this life on Monday, August 26, 2024, at Chapel Hill UNC Medical Center. The Lord called his name with, "well done my servant, well done" and he answered saying his work on earth has been completed.

Ed's life began June 25, 1930 in Long Branch, Texas as the oldest of four children born into the loving family of Elijah Jeremiah and Allie Mae Tatum. He was a graduate of Butler College in Tyler, Texas and Smith College where he received BA degrees in education and architecture. He spent nearly all of his life working in fields of service that allowed him to help others. He made many lasting relationships during his tenure in education as a teacher and administrator, as well as school bus driver. He used his knowledge of architecture and design to embark upon a successful career in general contracting for forty years. He built homes, including his own, in Washington, Texas, and Arizona. Above all else, Ed applied his servant's heart to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ and working to further His kingdom. His ministry work spanned over seventy years and culminated in his role of advising elder.

Blessed with many virtues instilled by his parents, Ed possessed an admirable work ethic, high moral standards, and complete devotion to his family. His life was a sweet and special gift to all of us who loved him and will keep him forever in our hearts.

In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by his sisters, Willie Blanton and Millie Brown; brother, Cornelius Tatum; granddaughter, Candice Fields; and his first wife, Ellene Tatum.

He leaves a lifetime of cherished memories for his loving wife, Mary K.P. Tatum; daughters, Sherri Fields (Sam) of Coolidge Az, Sharon Eleby (Richard), Kari George of San Antonio, Texas, and Roberta Powell of Rocky Mount, NC; son, Phillip "Rodeo" Powell of Rocky Mount, NC; and his favorite doggy, Peanut. He will also be deeply missed by eight grandchildren; nine great‑grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and many friends and other extended relatives.

A service to remember Ed and honor Jesus Christ will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 1:00pm at Westside Church of Christ, 2551 Benvenue Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 12:00pm.