David Mitchell Tatum was born April 5‚ 1957‚ to Virginia and the late William Tatum. David is survived by his wife‚ Regina Tatum; sons‚ David Jr. and Chris Tatum; Tommy Layton‚ Michelle Brown‚ and Lisa Mahoney; and two brothers‚ William Jr. and Kenny Tatum. David was the proudest grandfather of all 15 grandchildren.

David joined Tar Heel (North Carolina) Volunteer Rescue Squad in 1982 and worked as an EMT-basic until the end. Even when off duty‚ if David heard a page for our community he would be out the door and on the scene helping out until rescue got there.

David retired after 25 years (since 1985) from Kelly Springfield Tire & Rubber Company‚ now Goodyear‚ where he worked as a forklift mechanic. He was also on the fire brigade at work until he was injured in an auto accident on the way home from work that caused him to retire.

David joined Dublin Volunteer Fire Department in 2003‚ and in 2005 he made Firefighter of the Year. He also joined the Tar Heel Volunteer Fire Department in October 2006‚ and shortly after joining made the rank of captain. David was president of Bladen County Firefighters’ Association from 2009-2010. He joined the White Oak Volunteer Fire Department in 2008 and again made Firefighter of the Year in 2011. He received his Firefighter 1 and 2 certifications in 2010. He also served on the board of directors.

David loved everything about life and stayed busy‚ always dedicated in trying to help others when in need. He was a wonderful husband and father‚ always putting others first. Everyone that knew David loved him dearly.

David gave his life to the Lord on May 23‚ 2010‚ and was a member of White Oak Baptist Church. He was a loving‚ forgiving man and saw the good in everyone. Now he is where he belongs for all the good and love he spread‚ watching over us with our Heavenly Father. He is gone but will never be forgotten. He left us doing what he loved best‚ serving his community with honor‚ courage‚ dedication‚ and leadership.

David was a man of courage and dedicated in everything-fire‚ rescue‚ and family.