Meridith passed peacefully into God's loving arms early Friday, November 1, 2024. He was a friendly, kind, generous, capable, caring man who loved his family and friends. Family and long-term friends affectionately called him Bubba. To business associates and other friends, he was known as Tate. By any name, he will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.

Meridith was born in Meridian, MS on February 24, 1949, to Meridith Wells and Georgia (Joyce) Sanders Tatum of Chunky, MS. He attended Whitfield Elementary School, Hardy Junior High School, Provine High School, and graduated in 1967 from Council School No.3, all in Jackson, MS. He also attended Hinds Community College and Holmes Community College and served in the Army Reserve.

Bubba married his high school sweetheart, Juliana (Julie) Black on March 28, 1970. They were friends, as well as marriage partners. They enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling with family, softball and NECA friends, as well as sitting quietly watching deer and birds in their back yard.

Bubba attended First Baptist Church of Flora. Although his illnesses prevented attending in person in recent years, he regularly watched church services on Facebook and attended a Zoom Sunday school class. He loved the Lord and faithfully and joyfully gave his time, talents, and other resources to furthering God's kingdom.

Tate was dedicated to the Central MS Chapter, National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) where he was employed since 1989 until his death. He enjoyed his work and formed friendships and positive working relationships with contractors and union representatives during his tenure at NECA.

Meridith is survived by his wife, Julie; his brother, Joseph (Anita) Tatum; sister, Adelia (Peter) Lee; two nieces, Sarah Marie Lee and Elizabeth Tatum, and three nephews, Pete Lee (Jenna); Mark Meridith Lee (Bethany); and Joshua Tatum. Although not blood relatives, he claimed Julie's family and loved them as his own.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Marion Green Tatum and his niece, Heather Danielle Tatum.

ln lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Flora lmmeasurably More building fund.