Phyllis Tatom's Obituary
Phyllis Neal Tatom was born in Honey Grove, Texas on April 6, 1927 and was finally able to meet Jesus, her Lord and Savior, face to face on April 27, 2020. She lived in Dallas for most of her life but Honey Grove was always home.
At 93, many of her loved ones both family and friends have gone before her. She loved them all. Her brothers Jack and Jerry and her dear mother and father to mention just a few. Of those that preceded her, the most loved of them all, the one that broke her heart the most when he was called home, was her larger than life and loving husband Charles. Her one “claim to fame” as she used to say. We cannot help but smile when we think how glorious that reunion was only a few hours ago. Those first few moments with all of eternity in front of them, we can see them smiling as well.
Those of us left behind, while sad, rejoice in knowing that we had a sister, a mother, a grandmother and a great grandmother, that loved us and set an example of how we can remain faithful to God throughout a lifetime. We, Sue (Neal) and Robert Radney, Bill and Cheryl Tatom, Gayla and Dennis Gant, David and Ginny Tatom along with 5 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren have been left a Godly heritage in: Phyllis, Mom, Momma, Gran and Mum Mum. For this, we are eternally grateful.
We assume everyone reading this knew Phyllis. Most of us had many years with her. We know who she is and was. Every one of us knew her in unique and special ways. Everyone’s relationship with her was different and to try and give tribute to all that we hold dear would be more than something like this could contain. This time to remember her should be as personal as your own mind and heart will allow you. That said, let us muse for a few moments.
Pretty sure everyone either knew Phillis on arrival in Heaven or shortly thereafter. Did we not all know when Phyllis was in the room? She just had a presence. Happy or sad, good or bad, we knew she was there. In a crowd, her voice could be heard. She always had something to say and wasn’t afraid to say it. At least we knew where she was and where she stood. This makes me smile.
She was a bit of a party girl. Loved to sing and dance (though dancing was reserved for her best friend in life, Charles.) Always wanting to go, to be the first one there and the last one to leave. She didn’t want to miss anything! You all know exactly what I am saying. Why? She loved people. She loved being around all of us and in the thick of any activity. I must say, she had more energy than anyone I ever knew. Those of us who have unsurmountable energy have the Mom, Momma, Gran, Mum Mum gene. Did we not love that about her? At least those of us who had some glimmer of hope that we could keep up with her. In reflection, I don’t recall having discussed spiritual gifts with her but Hospitality, Service and Helps come to mind.
Later in life, she would sometimes be grieved thinking she had not been a good mom. That somehow she had failed us at some level. Her kids, David, Gayla and myself “Trippy”, can testify to the fact that this was simply not true. She taught us that God was not only real but that he sent His son to die for us, that what He said was trustworthy and that if we followed Him, our lives would last for all eternity. You be the judge. Does that sound like a mom who failed? Not only did she teach this message, she lived this message! Now she is seeing first hand that what she taught us was not in vain. She is now complete and renewed and all of us who believe as she did, that salvation is through Jesus Christ alone,
will someday be with her again in Heaven. Here’s the really cool part, we won’t have to look for her either because you always know when Phyllis is in the room.
We know some of you would like to send flowers and our family appreciates this. In lieu of flowers however, it is our desire to have donations sent to the ministry set up by Kendra Gant Medina, Hope’s Gate: PO Box 2787, Wylie, Texas 75098. The mission is to bring hope to orphans and victims of human trafficking. www.hopesgate.org/donate. If desired, you can donate in the name of Phyllis Tatom.
At this time, there is no memorial service planned nor will there be any viewing. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am, Friday May 1, 2020 at Restland Funeral Home. We understand at this time that social distancing is part of our lives. While there will be limited congregation under an awning, it is acceptable to gather nearby using that appropriate PPE while maintaining proper distances. Can’t you just hear Phyllis now, “Oh Gosh, That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard of”… Still making me smile mom!
What’s your fondest memory of Phyllis?
What’s a lesson you learned from Phyllis?
Share a story where Phyllis' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Phyllis you’ll never forget.
How did Phyllis make you smile?