Richard Tatum

Richard A. Tatum, 66 of Prince George passed away on Monday, July 3, 2017, at Southside Regional Hospital. Born in Petersburg on November 20, 1950, he was preceded in death by his parents, John A. and Lucille C. Tatum of Waverly, his nephew, Bobby Owen, and his mother-in-law, Georgia L. Beville, who loved him dearly. He is survived by his wife, Susan C. Tatum, son, Brian Dale Cooper (Julie), and daughters Stephanie Marie Tatum and Melissa Dawn Tatum of Prince George, and grandson, Bradley Dale Cooper of Prince George. He is also survived by his brother, Robert (Bob) Owen and his wife Katie of Chester, and nephew, Mike Owen of Chesapeake. Richard was a 1970 graduate of Prince George High School. He began working as a lineman at Prince George Electric Cooperative (formerly REA) until he entered the United States Army in 1971. After proudly serving his country in the Panama Canal Zone, he returned to work at Prince George Electric Cooperative. He began working at Fort Lee in 1976 as a High Voltage Electrician and was employed as Lead Quality Assurance Specialist until his retirement in February 2010. Following his retirement, he was employed part time as a Warehouse Coordinator at Siemens Industry in Richmond from June 2011 until his death. Richard loved the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing. He was a friend to all and will be remembered for his generosity and kind spirit. He was always available to help others whether it be cutting grass or making repairs. Richard will be greatly missed by not only his family but also his many friends and co-workers. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Richard to the American Cancer Society. The family is being served by E. Alvin Small Funeral Home and Crematory at 3935 S. Crater Road, Petersburg. Condolences may be registered at www.EAlvinSmall.com.