PORTSMOUTH—Carol V. Tatum, 85, passed away September 4, 2025. She was born in South Hilo, Hawaii, to the late James and Eleanor St. Claire Felix.

Carol is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 50 years, Terry D. Tatum, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and companionship; three daughters, Veronica Bircher Day of Kansas City, Traci Smith Cistola of Chesapeake, and Tammy Tatum; eight grandchildren, Taylor Ann Hamilton, Sarah Lynn Stewart, Cari Eleanor Cole, Haley Bircher Varela, Zachary Carl Bircher, Heartly Tatum, Lana Tatum, and Lux Tatum; four great-grandchildren; and one sister, Alexis F. Hughes of Suffolk. Her family was the joy of her life; she was a devoted and loyal mother and grandmother who always put her loved ones first.

Carol dedicated her career to caring for others as a registered nurse and was a valued member of the cardiac surgery team at Norfolk General Hospital. Her compassion, skill and commitment touched countless lives, both in her professional work and in her personal relationships.

She will be remembered for her generous heart, sharp wit, and unwavering strength. Carol loved animals, reading, and above all the time she spent with her husband and grandchildren. Bold and caring, she lived her life with warmth and courage, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were blessed to know her.

A funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 10, at Foster Funeral Home, 1926 High St., Portsmouth. The family will receive friends an hour prior. Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.