Obituaries

Harold "Doc" Tatum

Harold Maury Tatum M.D. departed from this world on Jan. 1, 2018. Known to most as Hally, Papa Doc or, simply "Doc," he was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather and dedicated member of the medical community. Born in Tyronza, Ark., on April 14, 1929, Dr. Tatum graduated from Ouachita Baptist College in 1951, the same year he married the love of his life, Billy Joe Taylor. He graduated from the University of Arkansas School of Medicine, now the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, in 1955. He went on to join the United States Air Force, where he served as a flight surgeon in Michigan for two years. He served as a medical representative at one of the last above-ground nuclear detonations in 1956. Hally and Billy Joe moved to Melbourne, Ark., in the summer of 1958, where he became the first full-time physician in Izard County. Dr. Tatum served the residents of Melbourne as a trusted and hard-working physician for over 40 years, often providing care for little or no payment. He retired after a long and satisfying career of providing comprehensive care to much of Izard County. After retiring, he continued his long-time hobby of woodworking, producing unique works of art. A man of strong Christian faith, Hally was a longtime member of The First Baptist Church of Melbourne, where he sang in the choir and taught Sunday school. His love for medicine and the people of Izard County was matched only by his love for his family, particularly Billy Joe, his favorite traveling companion and supporter of his varied efforts in the community. Their hospitality was known throughout the world, their regular gatherings of friends and family were legendary. They hosted countless parties and functions at their famed home, Wildflower, with menus that always included wild edibles and game collected by Hally and Billy Joe. Hally was preceded in death by his adored wife, Billy Joe, parents, Finley and Leta Mae, and his brother, Ray. He is survived by his children, Angel Tatum Craddock of Nashville, Lisa Tatum of Maumelle, Lori Tatum Purtle of Melbourne, Maury Tatum Quo of Little Rock, and Tobias Tatum of Melbourne, his brother, Phillip Tatum of Farmington Mo., nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. The Tatum children would like to express their gratitude to White River Area Agency on Aging and Hospice of North Arkansas (especially Sandy Tolman) for the care of their Dad during his last few months. They also thank Pioneer Living and Therapy of Melbourne for care they gave during his last few weeks. The Tatum family also appreciates the concern, prayers and visits from Bro. Rick Burke, the pastor of First Baptist Church of Melbourne. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018 at 1 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Melbourne. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Manna House, a local food pantry supported by the Tatum's for many years. Call (870) 346-5327 to make a donation in Dr. Tatum's name.

Published January 2, 2018

Upcoming Events