Robert Dale Tatum began his journey in life on Sept. 5, 1929. He was born in Missouri City, and graduated from Missouri City High School. Robert Dale Went on to attend and graduate from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Arts, and from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with a Masters of Religious Education, and a Masters of Divinity. His work for the Lord began as a minister. Robert Dale joined the Naval Reserves and later was called to active duty as a Chaplain in the U.S. Navy. This part of his life took him all over the world doing the Lord's work. Robert Dale retired as a Full Commander in the U.S. Navy. He went on to serve the Lord doing his work as interim pastor for churches, performing weddings and funerals, etc. He also was heavily involved in the Masonic Lodge, VFW and the American Legion. Robert Dale had many titles and jobs, enjoying all of them. Robert Dale has finally received his last set of orders, to go home and be with the Lord our God.
Robert Dale is survived by his loving wife, Helen Tatum; daughter, Susan and Mike Monzingo; son, Paul and Debbie Tatum; daughter, Molly Tatum and Louis Malvo. There are numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11, 2017, at First Baptist Church of Vinton. The Rev. Bobby Daniel will officiate. Burial will follow in Big Woods Cemetery in Edgerly, under the direction of Hixson Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday and noon-1 p.m. on Friday all at the church.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonfuneralhomes.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Hixson Funeral Home-Vinton.
November 6, 2017
Eugene Rosemary
I just found out that Chaplin Tatum passed away, I served with him in 1962-63. We met when he was assigned to the 2nd anti tank batt. (ontos) then transferred to the 3rd Batt. 6th Marines and was transferred with him. I was his Clerk/Driver until I was discharged in April of 1963. I am truly sorry for the families loss, he was a good man. Semper Fi Chaplin. Eugene Rosemary
USMC
August 10, 2017
August 10, 2017
Remembering the many lovely tropical evenings we shared at Naval Station, Rodman, Canal Zone. Our thoughts and prayers are with Helen and the family. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him.
Celia & Jim Woerner
August 10, 2017
Remembering the many lovely tropical evenings we shared at Naval Station, Rodman, Canal Zone. Our thoughts and prayers are with Helen and the family. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him.
Celia & Jim Woerner
August 10, 2017
Curtis and Ellen Edgar
Bro. Dale meant so much to Curt and me. From his funny, funny stories to his spiritual guidance, he was truly a real friend. We will be praying for Mrs. Helen and the rest of his family as they begin this life without him, but, knowing one day we will all be re-united. With love.
August 10, 2017
John and Rose Mary Pipta
Chaplain Tatum was our gift from God. He was the Navy Relief Chaplain and at the Cathedral of the Air. Lakehurst, NJ. Everyone loved Chaplain and Helen. He made a difference in the world for all branches of military and the civilian community. He left a legacy of love, the greatest gift of all. May he rest in peace, duty is done. May he be a guardian angel to he loved and those who loved him. Semper Fidelis, Col. John and Rose Mary Pipta, USMC (RET)
August 10, 2017
Col John Pipta
Chaplain Tatum was our gift from God and served Navy Lakehurst, NJ when I had the Marine Barracks. Everyone at Navy Relief and the entire congregation of the Cathedral of the Air, young people, middle aged, elderly, civilians and military, loved him and Helen. He made a difference in the world and left a legacy of love, the greatest gift of all. Semper Fidelis, Chaplain, rest in peace, duty is done. May you be a guardian angel to those you loved and those who loved you. Semper Fi, Colonel John and Rose Mary Pipta, USMC (RET)
August 9, 2017
Judith (Tatum) Newcomb
Rest In Peace Uncle Dale. Aunt Helen and Susan, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Judy (Tatum) Newcomb (Dale's brother, Charles', daughter)
August 9, 2017
Harold & Chryel Douga
Bro. Dale has been a light for many people. He always made me laugh with his humor. When things would get in his (spiritual) way, he would always say "no need to worry, the good Lord will take care of it." GOD blessed him with an amazing life and many many friends, of which I count myself as one. Bro. Dale was also blessed with a devoted and loving wife. Mrs. Helen, you are a gift from GOD. We are as close as a call. You are in our prayers.
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