Edwin “Ed” Neal Tatum, 73, of Platte City, passed away Saturday, Dec. 21, 2019, at New Mark Care Center, Kansas City.
He was born in Atlanta, TX, on Dec. 20, 1946 the son of Merlin and Alice (Buvens) Tatum. He graduated from De Queen Arkansas High School in 1965. Ed earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX.
On Dec. 22, 1979 he was united in marriage to Lana Milstead in Dallas, TX.
Ed operated a landscaping business. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Platte City.
Ed was outgoing and never met a stranger. He was an avid sports enthusiast who followed the Chiefs, Royals, Cowboys and Platte County Pirates. He especially enjoyed spending time with his daughter and grandchildren.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents; brother Pat Tatum; brother Jimmy Tatum.
Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Lana, of the home; daughter Stacey Brewer of Kansas City; grandchildren Simon and Olivia Brewer of St. Joseph; sister Judy (Ray) Patak of Dallas, TX; sister Sue Weaver of Garland, TX; brother John Tatum of Longview, TX; goddaughter, Kelli Moses of Dallas, TX; nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to First Baptist Church, Platte City, in care of the funeral home.
Graveside services: 2 p.m., Friday, Dec. 27, 2019 Hillcrest Cemetery, Gallatin. Open viewing: noon to 1 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home, Gallatin. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com. 
