Jessie Tatum

Jessie Tatum Main Photo

Jessie (Flo Jo) Denise Tatum was born in Columbus, Ohio on Saturday, August 16, 1958 to Mary Grace Woodruff and Robert Williams.

Jessie received her High School Diploma from Marion Franklin High School. She went on to attend Norfolk State University where she received her Bachelor Degree in Business. Jessie continued her educational pursuit by attending Central Michigan there she received her Master’s Degree in Business Administration.

Jessie worked 30 plus years at MetLife insurance until her retirement. Shortly after retiring, she decided to start her own home health care agency “Flo’s Comfort Care” in memory of her late grandmother. Through her business Jessie could fulfill her passion for helping people and advocating for those in need of companionship and home health care. While maintaining her business and serving as primary caretaker of her mother Jessie decided to reenter the work force at Discover Financial Services where she remained employed until her passing.

Jessie will be remembered for her bright smile and undeniable love for others. Some of her many hobbies included traveling, attending “old school “concerts, sporting events and running in marathons. Jessie was an avid reader with a massive book collection. One of her favorite pastime was watching football with her husband, Roosevelt. Jessie was a true Michigan and Pittsburgh Steelers fan, while her husband rooted for the Ohio State Buckeyes and Las Vegas Raiders. Her greatest joy came from spending precious moments with her grandson, James, a bond that will never be broken.

Blessed with 62 years of life, Jessie Tatum departed this earthly life on January 1, 2021.

She is preceded in death by father, Robert Williams; Grandmother, Florence Jeffries, and Uncle, Reverend Arthur Woodruff.

Loving Memories are cherished by Devoted husband, Roosevelt Tatum; Daughter, Jennifer Johnson; Mother, Mary Grace Woodruff; Brothers, Paul (Tina) Turnbo, Jamey Woodruff, and Michael Williams; Grandson, James Johnson; Sisters, Robin Williams and Ranada (Lamont) Harris; Nieces, Sydnie Woodruff and Da Nesha Turnbo; Stepchildren, Candis and Tyler Williams, Roosevelt Tatum Jr., Derick Williams, Antonio Williams, Malcom Williams and Robert Tatum; Longtime friends Rita, Brent and Cynthia Donaldson, and a host of other relatives, family and many friends.

PRIVATE Visitation 10:00 AM and Funeral Service 11:00 AM Friday, January 15, 2021 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave.

Interment at Glen Rest Memorial Gardens.

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Condolence Messages

  1. Jessie was a longtime friend (since high school) and co-worker. Always fun to be around and great to talk to. I’ll certainly miss her. Very sad time. My condolences to the family for their loss.

  2. I was heartbroken to hear of the passing of my dear friend and co-worker. Offering my sincere condolences to the family. Rest in Heaven Jessie.

  3. Dear Roosevelt and the family, please accept our deepest condolences for the passing of Jessie. May the lord bless and help ease your pain through this difficult time. With love from Cory and the Jones family.

  4. I wish to offer my sincere condolences on the loss of Jesse. Jesse helped to mentor me early in my career and was very generous with her time and knowledge. She touched many lives of her friends and co-workers at MetLife. I’m deeply saddened for your loss.

  5. Christopher Milone

    I worked with Jessie for a brief time at Met and couldn’t have met a nicer person. Please accept my deepest condolences.

  6. Rest well Jessie! I hope to see you again when life is perfect and death is no more. “Baby” James and I will keep precious memories of you and all the and devotion you gave to him. Warmest condolences to Ms. Grace, Paul & Jamie.

  7. Lucretia McQueen

    My sincere condolences to the Woodruff-Tatum family. Jamie I remember being at Marion Franklin and Jessie would always talk about you. You and Steve would work our nerves but we loved you all and no one could say anything about you but us. Cherish all the great memories you had with your sister and her always being there for you and that will help you carry on her memory. Will keep you lifted up in prayer .

  8. Sending sincere condolences to the Woodruff and Tatum families. We will certainly miss our cousin “Niecy”! Prayers for comfort and peace during this time of grief. God bless.

    With love from the Bradley/Greenhow cousins!

    Sent by Sarah aka “Cotty”

  9. Roosevelt: I was deeply saddened to learn of your wife’s passing. Sheila and I wish you only fond memories.

  10. Though your heart must hold sadness.
    The primary source of consolation is our compassionate
    heavenly father. May the God who gives peace be with you all.

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