Rev. Gene C. Tatum

Rev. Gene C. Tatum, 73, of Amelia, VA, died August 19, 2020. He was a native of Dinwiddie County, the only son of the late James F. and Cecil Chappell Tatum. He entered the ministry at the age of 20. Appointments served include Surry, Associate at Washington Street Petersburg, Cartersville, Burkeville, Waverly, Amelia, Woods, and Ocran. During his 16 years at Ocran, the plans for the new church were developed and the church was built and paid for. When he retired in 2009, he had served 42.75 years in the ministry. In retirement, he served the West Dinwiddie Charge for 3½ years and then filled in for ministers when needed as long as his health allowed. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 24 years, Mary Nell Blanton Tatum of Amelia and a cousin, who was like a brother, Thomas W. “Tom” Chappell of Dinwiddie. A graveside funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 22, 2020 at Southlawn Memorial Park with The Rev. Tim Beck officiating. Covid-19 safety guidelines will be strictly adhered to and those in attendance are expected to wear a mask. Flowers are welcome or contributions may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Contributions should be sent to LLS Virginia, P.O. Box 22475, New York, NY 10087. Services are by Williams Funeral Home & Crematory of Lawrenceville, VA. Condolences may be expressed at www.williamsfuneralhomeva.com.