Vanessa Clarie Tatum

Vanessa Claire Moses was born the six and last child from the union of Ernest Otis and Hattie May Moses on December 13, 1958 in Baton Rouge, LA. Vanessa was the baby girl of the family and was deeply loved by her siblings and family members. From childhood Vanessa was a very active child and was easily identified by her sassy looks. Vanessa graduated high school in 1976 from Istrouma Sr. High School in Baton Rouge, L.A. and with a burning zeal for greener pastures, she relocated to Los Angeles, California.

Vanessa loved life in Los Angeles and began working for the City of Los Angeles just a couple years after relocating. She married Dmitri Tatum in 1981 and from that union two daughters were born, Carissa and Jennifer. She later divorced and peacefully co-parented in raising their two children.

Vanessa had a desire for success and pursued higher education at University of Phoenix in, Anaheim, CA. Receiving her B.S. degree in Business Administration in 2001.

Vanessa was employed as a Principle Clerk Utility (PCU) with the Dept of Water and Power for the City of Los Angeles. She was very hard working and respected by her colleagues. At work she rendered with total commitment and uninterruptedly for over 35 years until her retirement in 2016.

Vanessa spent her retirement travelling, shopping, making memories with family and friends, and spoiling her grandchildren.

Vanessa was fearless and was fascinated for exploring places. This gift of her manifested in her fondness for owning Harley Davidsons and riding across highways of California. Vanessa also like shopping and decorating. Christmas was her favorite season because she used the time to showcase her creativeness to family and friend. Vanessa was very family oriented and loved to entertained never becoming tired with the overflow of family and friends to her home.

She leaves to cherish her memories; two daughters, Carissa M. Tatum, Dr. Jennifer M. Tatum, three grandchildren; Kamal Jr., Alyssa, and Malcolm who she loved deeply. One brother Michael J. Moses, one sister Renee Moses, a son In-law: Kamal McElroy, a sister In-law: May Okwandu - Moses, three Nephews and four nieces, Mr. & Mrs. Walter Thomas Sr. (Aunt & uncle) and a host of relatives and friends.

Vanessa Claire Moses-Tatum was called to her Heavily Home on February 9, 2019 at the age of 60 years old in Fontana, CA. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, paternal and maternal grandparents, one sister, Gilda Moses, and two brothers: Russell and Malcolm Moses.

“ I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O’Lord, make me dwell in safety” Psalms 4:8