Joan Ann Tatum, age 87, of Dameron, Maryland, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026.

She was born on January 6, 1939, the daughter of Joseph Spencer Bradburn and Ruth Madeline Bradburn, both of whom preceded her in death.

Joan was married to the love of her life, Jerry E. Tatum, for 43 wonderful years until his passing. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, hard work, and unwavering love for their family. She is survived by her three children: Teresa (Keith) Perryman, Timothy Tatum, and James(Debbie) Tatum. Joan was the proud and devoted grandmother of Justin (Amber) Perryman, Amanda (Nevall) Parker, Christopher (Shannon) Tatum, Samantha (Wesley) Chevillot, and Benjamin Tatum. She was also a cherished great-grandmother to ten great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy.

Joan is survived by her sister Patricia Mulcahey and preceded in death by her sisters Rose Marie and Mary Ruth, and her brothers Thomas and Leonard.

Joan dedicated 35 years to civil service, most of them with the Navy Experimental Dive Unit, beginning her career in Washington, D.C., and eventually retiring in Panama City, Florida. Her professional life was marked by loyalty, integrity, and immense pride in her work. With her children grown, Joan pursued one of her lifelong goals and enrolled at Florida State University, earning her college degree—though she always remained a Gator at heart. To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was lovingly known as “Mimi.” Mimi could always be found in the stands at ballgames, applauding at recitals, attending school plays, or joining her little ones for lunch at school. If it involved her grandchildren, she was there—no hesitation and no distance too far. Her presence was a constant source of love, encouragement, and pride.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 10 a.m. in the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Interment will follow in the Evergreen Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at the Wilson Funeral Home on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m.

Joan’s legacy is one of devotion—to her family, her faith, her work, and her dreams. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.