Mark Tatum

Mark Davis Tatum of Victoria, TX, passed away on September 13, 2025, at age 70. Mark was born on April 16, 1955, to the brilliant Frieda (Sunny) and Dr. Kirby J. Tatum in Snyder, Texas. After his father completed medical school, the family settled in Odessa, Texas. Mark played the French horn in the marching band and competed on the speech and debate team at Permian High School and graduated in 1973.

Mark attended Texas Tech University, earning both a B.A. in psychology and a law degree. He then embarked on a legal career that spanned more than 40 years in Texas. Mark began his career in Amarillo and spent the last 15 years serving the communities surrounding Victoria, Texas, where he was appointed as an Assistant Attorney General. His work spanned over ten counties in South Texas, where he made a lasting impact as a child support lawyer for the state.

Mark loved the human connection at the heart of his work—the stories, the friendships, and the camaraderie that came with practicing law. Known for his professional demeanor, sharp mind, and deep understanding of people, he excelled in the courtroom in South Texas. Outside of the courtroom, his compassion for others, contagious laugh, dry wit, and zest for life made him a cherished friend and colleague. He brought joy to his colleagues’ children by playing Santa at Christmastime, cared deeply for his coworkers, and dedicated his career to bettering the lives of those around him.

Beyond his work, Mark found joy in simple pleasures: playing golf or pool, sharing a good meal with friends, and spinning stories that always ended in laughter. He was a gifted listener, equally ready to offer solutions or simply lend an ear. In the often-challenging area of family law, Mark had a unique gift for guiding people toward agreements that all could accept. Many remember him as a wise mentor and a steady presence in difficult times.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, his brother John, his wife Jean, and his stepfather Grady. He is survived and deeply missed by his brother, Jeffery Tatum; his children, Jenifer Tatum, Stephen Tatum, and Hailey Reaux; his grandsons, Mark and Wayne Guillen; and many nieces, nephews, and countless friends across Texas, from Amarillo to Corpus Christi. His memory will also be carried on by his lifelong friends Chris and Barbara Cherry, along with local friends Tammy Cochran, Betty Kovar, and Judge Jill Sklar.

Donations in his name should be made to Mid-Coast Family Services in Victoria, Texas.