Carlton Vater Tatum

Carlton Vater Tatum was born Monday, October 27, 1958, in Lufkin, Texas to Vater Tatum and Louise Harris. Carlton was the fifth of six children, raised with his siblings Donald, Norlan, Michael, Joe (deceased), and Carla. He was deeply loved by all his brothers and sisters. He was raised in the Fifth Ward community, where he attended Bethany Missionary Baptist Church and Jefferson Davis High School.

Carlton married Pamela Butler on August 15, 1987, and had two beautiful children, Karlton Jovan and Kia Janae. His family was his pride and joy. While working at Entex Gas Company, he simultaneously earned his Commercial Driver’s License. Shortly thereafter, he became an operator/driver of tractor-trailer trucks working for Averitt Express.

He was a renowned fisherman and lover of the great outdoors. Carlton could often be found enjoying time with family and friends, listening to music, dancing, traveling, barbecuing, woodworking, and flashing his famous big smile. Family was of the utmost importance to Carlton. Guided by his mother’s example, he became the keeper of family traditions - bringing everyone together around shared memories, laughter, and love, and ensuring the family stayed connected.

Carlton is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years Pamela, his son Karlton, his daughter Kia, his brothers Don and Michael, his sisters Norlan (Shelby) and Carla, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.