Miriam (Gonzalez) Tatum, 75, of Worcester, died on Thursday, July 18th at UMass Memorial Hospital – University Campus, surrounded by her loving family. She leaves her husband of 19 years, James Tatum, Jr.; two sons, Richard Marrero and his wife, Sandra of Spring Hills, FL and Miguel Gonzalez of Worcester; a daughter, Maria Rainwater of Worcester; two brothers, Julio Gonzalez and his wife, Mary of Florida and Juan Gonzalez of Texas; five sisters, Josephine Otero and her husband, Gilberto of Maryland, Marta Papaleo, Carmen Aviles, and Gloria Gonzalez all of Worcester, and Clara Diaz of Virginia; 13 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a son, Joseph Marrero; and a brother, George Papaleo.
She was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, the daughter of the late Julio and Emilia (Sanchez) Gonzalez. Miriam dedicated 18 years of her life to serving the community at Community Action Council of Worcester, where she compassionately assisted countless individuals as a fuel assistance determiner. In her leisure time, Miriam found joy in simple pleasures. She loved the thrill of scratch tickets and the excitement of the lottery. Her evenings were often filled with laughter as she watched Steve Harvey entertain on television and tested her knowledge with the contestants of Jeopardy. Miriam's culinary talents extended beyond her kitchen as she savored both cooking and dining out. Miriam's passing leaves a void in the lives of her family and friends, who will forever remember her infectious laughter, unwavering kindness, and zest for life. She cherished her family above all else, especially her husband James, with whom she shared countless adventures traveling the world. Miriam's love for her grandchildren was evident in every moment spent camping at Salisbury Beach, creating memories that will forever be cherished. Miriam's legacy of warmth, generosity, and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.
Her funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 25th beginning at 9:30am in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton. A calling hour will be from 8:30am until the start of the service in the funeral home.