William Ross Tatum

William Ross “Billy” Tatum, 84, of Axton, passed away Friday, September 27, 2013 at his residence. He was born in Stuart, Virginia, April 7, 1929 to the late William P. “Buck” Tatum and Annie Ross Tatum. He was a graduate of Brosville High School and retired from Dan River Mills after 45 years of service. William was a long-time member of Mount Calvary Church where he played piano for approximately 50 years. He also served as deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, Trustee and in many other church capacities. After retirement, he worked for the Mount Calvary Day Care and Academy for 20 years. Billy is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marie Wilson Tatum of the residence; one daughter and son-in-law, Ronda Tatum Cousins and Roger C. of Axton; two sons and daughters-in-law, Garry Ross Tatum and Marti of State Road, NC and Steven Wilson Tatum and Kim of Ridgeway; one brother, James Bernard Tatum, Sr. of Axton; nine grandchildren, Michael Ross Tatum, Travis Lee Tatum, Leah Tatum Maulding, Steven Ross Tatum, Joshua Mychael Diaz, Jeremy Andrew Diaz, Justin Ward Cousins, Jeremy Wade Cousins and Amber Cousins Kendall; eleven great-grandchildren, Ariana Tatum, Ethan Tatum, Brandon Testerman, Blake Tatum, Brayson Tatum, Deuce Maulding, Malli Maulding, Hannah, Kayla, Nathan and Jaci Cousins. The funeral service will be held Monday, September 30, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at Mount Calvary Church with the Rev. Jonathan Hill officiating. Interment will follow in Roselawn Burial Park. The family will receive friends Sunday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the church and other times at the residence. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mount Calvary Church, Building Fund, 350 A.L. Philpott Hwy, Axton, VA 24054. Arrangements are by McKee-Stone Funeral Home in Martinsville. To express condolences on line, please visit www.collinsmckeestonemartinsville.com.