Memorial Gifts & Donations
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Paul Raymond Tatum on Monday, July 31, 2023, at the age of 67. He was a native of Burlington, North Carolina, and currently resided in Burgaw, North Carolina.
Paul is survived by his wife, Cynthia Tatum, her daughter Christina Jenkins, and her son Caleb Tatum, his son Robert Raymond Tatum II and his wife Dia Tatum, their two children Trace and Teddy Tatum, his daughter Courtney Lynn Tatum, and his brother, Stephen Tatum his wife Sally, and brother James Tatum and wife Janice. He is the son of the late Robert Raymond Tatum and Evelyn Dickey Tatum.
Paul was a licensed optician for 40 years, starting his optical career at Bill Dunn Opticians in downtown Burlington. Paul then opened his own business, Tatum Optical Shoppe, also in Burlington. Years later he began a new venture in the restaurant business before returning back to his original career as an optician. He loved his two dachshunds Beau and Molly and UNC athletics. He was passionate about his love for music, and spending quality time with his wife Cindy. He was a loving son, husband, brother, father, and grandfather.
Paul courageously battled multiple myeloma cancer for nearly five years, the family would like memorials be directed to the National Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.
A celebration of Paul’s life will be held Friday, August 4, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Wilmington Funeral Chapel.
Please share memories and condolences by visiting the “Tribute Wall” below.
Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 29403. 910-791-9099
Paul, Joel and Courtney