In Memory of

Muriel

E.

Tatum

Obituary for Muriel E. Tatum

Our beloved mother, sister, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully Friday, January 14, 2022.

Muriel Ester Dance Tatum was born August 16, 1935 to Randall Thomas and Agnes Wade Dance. She was the youngest of her siblings and was affectionately known to many as Baby Dance. Muriel attended and graduated from Girls’ High School in Roxbury, MA of the Boston Public School system. She continued her education attending Lesley College and Roxbury Community College.

Muriel was married to Richard G. Tatum whose union brought forth four children: Leslie, Richard, Mark and Nicole.

Muriel had a full and rich life, and worked for many years at the Sunnyside Day Care until her retirement. She was a member of the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, and its Missionary Society Board under the leadership of the Reverend Harold Bullock.

She enjoyed travelling to Paris, Italy, and within the United States – most notably to various Usher Board Conventions and events. All who entered her home were welcomed and treated as family. She found great joy cooking and offering her own homespun advice to them unconditionally.

Muriel is survived by her children: Leslie (Brockton, MA), Richard/Liliana (Washington, DC); Mark/Brenda (Mansfield, TX); grandchildren: Victoria Tatum, Corey Starks, Joseph Tatum, Tyree Tucker, Jazmine Humphries; sisters: Christine Hill, Juanita Lopes, Edwina (Bunny) Taylor; sisters-in-laws: Virginia (Jenny) Dance, Linda Dance; brothers-in-law: Philip Tatum, William D. Tatum; cousins and best friends: Leah Christie, Kathy Fonseca, Gail Silva, Edna Anderson, Sue Owens Boone, Louise D’Antignac; a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and a close extended family.

She is preceded in death by her brothers: Henry, Tony and Charles Dance; sisters: Marie Heath, Marcella Tatum, Audrey Rodriques, Maude Marve; daughter: Nicole; granddaughter: Lauren Tatum; godson, Randall Tatum; parents: Agnes and William Gourdine; and Randall and Christine Dance.

Muriel leaves a legacy of love for those who have affectionately called her Mom, Grandma, Grammy, Grandmother, Nana, Aunt and friend. Muriel will be immensely missed. But we are assured that she is resting in the arms of the Lord, and sitting with those who have prepared her place and ushered her into the Kingdom.

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