Master Gunnery Sergeant Jerry T. Tatum, Sr., 76, passed away on December 25, 2022, in Virginia Beach, VA.

He was born on September 13, 1946 in San Francisco, CA.

Jerry married Rosie on February 27, 1968, in Montgomery Alabama. The couple had 2 children, Jerry Tatum Jr. and Connie Jackson.

Affectionately called Top Tatum by his Marine Corps friends, Jerry was best known for his military service and compassionate spirit. He served proudly in the United States Marine Corps from 1967 - 1990.

He is survived by his wife, Rosie Tatum, son, Jerry Tatum, Jr., daughter, Connie Jackson and her husband, Mike Jackson, grandchildren, Zaire Riddick and Rylie Tatum, siblings, Travis Tatum and wife Beverly, Joycelyn Osborne, and Patricia Tatum, sister in law, Peggy Tatum, niece, Tamika Fitz and her husband Nasan Fitz, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family. He is preceded in death by his brother Reynard and loving parents, Travis and Annie Tatum.

The service for Mr. Jerry Tatum, Sr. will be held at noon on January 6, at Zion Community Church, 300 Broad Street, Portsmouth, VA 23707.

Viewing will be held January 5, from 4 - 7 pm at 1629 High Street, Portsmouth, VA 23704.

Burial will take place at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, 5310 Milners Rd., Suffolk, VA 23434