Ivan Burts Tatum

Ivan Tatum ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Carmichael Funeral Homes - Smyrna on Mar. 13, 2026.Mr. Ivan Burts Tatum, age 91 of Marietta, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026. A memorial service will be held at 2 pm, March 22 in the chapel of Carmichael Funeral Home in Smyrna. Interment will follow at Crest Lawn Memorial Park.Originally from Dawsonville, Georgia, Mr. Tatum moved to Atlanta, Georgia where he graduated from Northside High School in 1952 and from Southern Technical Institute in 1954. Ivan enlisted in the Army and served proudly until his honorable discharge in 1963. He continued his education and graduated from Georgia State University in 1971.Ivan married his soulmate Billie Jean (Ransom) Tatum in 1962. They lived in Atlanta and moved to Marietta in 1971 where they raised their children and were active in their community. Ivan spent most of his career with Lockheed Martin. Ivan was a Master Mason in active Masonic service for more than 60 years. He loved to garden and held the title of Lifetime Master Gardner. He was a longtime member of Roswell United Methodist Church.Mr. Tatum was preceded in death by his wife Billie Jean Tatum. He is survived by his son Eric Tatum (Leana), daughter Michelle Himes (Jeff), nine grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.The family will receive friends before the service from 12-2 pm, at the funeral home. Carmichael Funeral Home in Smyrna is in charge of arrangements. www.carmichaelcares.com 770-435-4467To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.