When Ms. Sue Tatum walked into a room, it was instantly filled with smiles, laughter and love.
Her smile was contagious, her laugh soothing and her spirit unwavering.
Ms. Sue died Thursday morning at the age of 92.
The Yazoo community continues to mourn the loss of one of its most wise, friendly and God-loving woman who made everyone’s day a little brighter.
Ms. Sue was born on Aug. 1, 1923 in Newton County to Clyde and Susie Biggs. She was the corporate secretary for the Mississippi Chemical Corporation, as well as personal assistant to its longtime president Owen Cooper. She was a strong presence at the local plant for many years.
Ms. Sue was also a faithful and dedicated member of the First Baptist Church of Yazoo City.
Rev. Clint Ritchie, pastor of First Baptist, said Ms. Sue was much more than just a church member.
“She served with her whole heart,” he said.
Along with other efforts, Ms. Sue taught Sunday School for over 50 years at the Oasis Health and Rehabilitation.
“If there were any patients who had no family or they didn’t visit much, she became that person for them,” Ritchie said. “She would also have the church adopt some of them at Christmas.”
Ritchie said the one thing that sticks out for him with Ms. Sue was her response when asked how she was doing.
“Blessed,” he said. “That is what she always said.”
Ritchie remembers Ms. Sue’s spirit and her sense of humor.
“She was always the life of the party,” he said. “Every time she walked into the room, it lit up.”
Ritchie said there is no way of knowing the thousands of people she impacted.
“To know her is to love her,” Ritchie said. “And she would love you in return. She will greatly be missed.”
Joan Turner was a neighbor and friend of Ms. Sue’s for many years.
“She was a Godly woman who was full of wisdom and cheer,” Turner said. “There is no way to say how much I will miss her.”
Turner said Ms. Sue loved her community and its people, her church and the Lord.
“She was a precious person and a friend who would do anything for you,” Turner said. “She was gifted in so many ways, not just in the church and her faith, but in small ways. Many folks don’t use the gifts they have, but she used all of hers.”
Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 6, at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Yazoo City. Visitation will be held prior to the services, beginning at 9:30 a.m.
