Leroy Tatum Jr.

Leroy Tatum, Jr. lived a life distinguished by service, faith, music, education, and an unwavering devotion to his family. Throughout his life, he used his many gifts and talents to serve his country, his community, his church, and those he loved.

Leroy proudly served his country for 23 years as a member of the United States Air Force Band. His love for music remained an important part of his life and opened the door for him to touch countless lives through his musical gifts. Following his military career, Leroy began another chapter of service as an X-Ray Technologist, a profession in which he worked for more than 10 years. He later returned to his passion for music by teaching talented arts students in Bossier Parish, sharing his knowledge, experience, and love of music with a new generation.

Leroy valued education and continued to develop the gifts God had given him. He earned an Associate Degree in Music from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, and an Associate Degree in Radiological Technology from Southern University in Shreveport, Louisiana. His accomplishments reflected his dedication, discipline, and lifelong commitment to learning and serving others.

His faith was an important foundation of his life. Leroy was a faithful member of Bellaire Baptist Church in Bossier City, Louisiana, where he willingly served wherever he was needed. He taught Sunday School, lifted his voice in the choir, served faithfully as a deacon, and drove the church bus whenever needed. His service to the church demonstrated a faith expressed not only through words, but also through his willingness to serve God and others.

Leroy shared 55 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Linda Smelley Tatum. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Ebony Espinoza and Erin James. His family held a special place in his heart, and the love, laughter, and memories they shared will forever remain a treasured part of his legacy.

Leroy Tatum, Jr. was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy Tatum, Sr. and Emily Tatum; his mother-in-love, Mary Tatum; and his brothers, Dorsey Lee Tatum and Calvin Tatum.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Linda Smelley Tatum; his daughters, Ebony Espinoza and Erin James; his son-in-law, Clint James; his daughter-in-law, Erika Espinoza; his granddaughter, Jazmine Carroll and her husband, Tyler Levesque; his granddaughters, Khyra Brown, Phenix Mascola, and Madelyn James; his sister, Willie Pearl Taylor and her husband, Curtis; his brothers, George Tatum and his wife, Linda; Morris Tatum and his wife, Deborah; Charles Tatum; Nathaniel Tatum and his wife, Gail; and Terry Tatum and his wife, Connie; his sister-in-law, Cynthia Tatum; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, other relatives, church family, and dear friends.

The family of Leroy Tatum, Jr. would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the many healthcare professionals and organizations who provided care, compassion, and support throughout his journey. Special thanks are extended to Sammons Cancer Center in Dallas, Texas; Willis-Knighton Cancer Center, with special appreciation to Dr. Joyce Feagin and staff; CenterWell Senior Care; Intensive Specialty Hospital; Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home in Bossier City, Louisiana; and Willis-Knighton Medical Center in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. Your kindness, dedication, and compassionate care will always be remembered.

Leroy Tatum, Jr. leaves behind far more than a record of accomplishments. He leaves a legacy of faith, family, service, music, education, and love. From serving his country through music, to caring for others in healthcare, to educating young musicians, to faithfully serving his church, Leroy’s life was one of purpose. Though his presence will be deeply missed, the lessons he taught, the music he shared, the lives he touched, and the love he gave will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.