Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Mr. Tatum, I never met you. But I recently met one of your daughters. She talks about you often. You truly made a lasting impact on her life. She lives each day to raise her boys how she thinks you would have. She’s doing pretty good I think. She’s had some rough times over the years, but you raised her to be strong and resilient. She’s an amazing woman. You did a great job, sir.
Wherever you are, you can rest knowing that you legacy lives strong through your daughters and grandchildren.
Well done, sir.

Jonathan
None

November 17, 2024

I turned 40 this last December and it was wonderful. I remember when you turned 40.
Lliam graduated May 15th. He’s the quiet calm that you were. Easy to smil or laughter but he’s reserved and thoughtful. Opinionated, but levelheaded.
It’s a bit surreal to me. I can still see him cradled in your arms. Les is a smart a** and absolutely brilliant. He pairs, plays two instruments, is a smart a** and gets into fights regularly. All completely called for, usually because he didn’t like what someone was doing. He has a beautifully naive sense of rightness , a mouth to stir trouble and a right hook that belongs to his momma. (And maybe you

Rebekah Tatum Parker
Daughter

June 16, 2023

It has been 16 yrs and 7 months here without you. I can still smell your Cologne at times and feel your presence. I miss you so much. You have 4 wonderful grandsons that your 2 spoiled daughters birthed. Your oldest looks more like you but your youngest acts just like you, and you would be proud of her, she followed in your footsteps and went into law enforcement.
We miss you dearly, Babe!

Cathy Tatum
Wife of Fallen Officer
Deputy Lester D. Tatum
EOW 12/28/2005

June 30, 2022

Rest in peace Deputy Sheriff Tatum.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

April 17, 2022

I turned 30 this month. You would have laughed at how silly I've taken the whole "30" thing. I have three of the most beautiful boys; Les, Jude and your Lliam. I named Les after you. He has our smile and his father's big mouth! (not mine which is pretty big)
I work hard and I do everything and anything to support my family. I've grown hard as nails....I'm a survivor in every essence of the term. I still carry the easy going heart and spirit but it wrapped tightly under barbed wire. LOL. You'd be proud of the woman I've grown into, even if it means keeping my distance from the family. I can say i have grown to not like many of them. Don't get me wrong i love them but I've had to distance myself and in doing so I'm the happiest I've been in a while. No judgement, no drama, nothing...just me, work, the kids, mamaw and the world I've built for them. Oh I moved my grandmother in with us. I won't disclose the details because you already know why. My only regret is not buying a bigger house! I love her staying with us; it's a blessing. Like you, my kids are my life and providing for them is everything.
Today I miss you
as much as I did 7 years ago.
I found out that mom is seeing someone else...which inside make me feel like a child, a stubborn child, but in reality I know it's good for her and it's the best thing to happen to her in years.
I promise you that none of my children call anyone but you grandpa and there will be no "step" anything. The idea is too bizarre and I'm to old.LOL
I teach my boys about you, so they know who you are no matter what.
I believe that i inherited your innate kindness and it's my favorite quality because every time someone brings it up I am honored because you were a shining example of human kindness.
Time doesn't take away the pain of you not being here. Did you know our family fell apart after you left?
Oh shit Dad... If i could just see you one last time. Despite who I've grown into I'm still your little girl and would do anything for one of your hugs.
I think about that night more than I should I suppose. I guess you know that there are a few theories about your accident and what/who might have caused it. And if those stories were true I'd kill for what they took away from this family and this community. I remember everything about that day...all in vivid snapshots posted on the wall of memories that define who I am.
Oh daddy.. i would kill for you to knock on my door at 6 or 7 a.m.
You told me over and over again..' "that you only live once"
Well Daddy, I make sure I do the best I can. As you know life is tough and I do my best and I'm happy. Know that I'm happy and in all honesty I only have ONE regret.
No turning right instead of left that day, because I didn't want to disrupt you working on the house...So after picking up Lliam from Pam's house I decided to go home instead of distract you. Because i knew mom would get mad at you. So i went home with Lliam, got dressed and we went to my (then) mother in law's house....where at about 8 p.m. I got the call that changed my life. I love you where ever you are.

Rebekah Parker/Clark
Daughter (oldest)

December 29, 2012

Rest in peace, Deputy Tatum. Your service and sacrifice to the citizen's of Trinity County and the great State of Texas are not forgotten.

Greater Houston C.O.P.S.

December 28, 2012

Well Babe, it’s been so long. I’m so lost—Still. I wish so much to just touch you, hear your little snickers, or you singing in my ear, Lonestars song, Amazed. You said this was my song. Just to say, I can’t bear to hear it now, because it sounds so much like you and you up against me singing this song in my ear. That hurts like nothing that has ever happened to me. I try to avoid those moments but they are there whether I want them or not. I do believe if all the color was off my hair I would be completely grey. I guess it’s that you are not here and I’ve had some really rough years and it shows. I guess that’s just the way it is.
You wouldn’t believe our family we created, our Daughters are all grown up and beautiful, both married with all boys, four of them, you would be in “hog heaven”, I wish you were here to talk to our kid, I don’t know anymore, what to do or say. So I’ve just stayed away. It’s killing me not to be a part of your grandsons life, all three of them. I’m tired of walking on egg shell around her. So she has decided to keep the boys away from me. I’m not worthy.
I still have Garrison he is grey all around his mouth, he whines constantly. He is like a little boy. LOL
I can’t write any more, I love you Babe and miss you like crazy.

You’re Wife Cathy

April 23, 2012

Cathy Tatum
Wife

April 24, 2012

Rest in peace, Deputy Tatum. You're not forgotten.

Greater Houston C.O.P.S.

December 28, 2011

Lester lost his life serving others. That's the kind of man he was.

Karen Jones
friend

December 11, 2011

Time marches on, that is true. However for so many it seems to stand still, when a loved one is taken from us. It seems like it has stood still in this case then I look and it has been 6 years. You are gone but never forgotten. You live on in our hearts, your wife, children, and most specially your grand children. You are so loved.
RIP Lester
Bobbie Sue Tatum-Warren
Cousin

Bobbie Sue Tatum-Warren
cousin

December 10, 2011

I cant believe how long it has been since I lost you! You were a huge joy in my life and a joy to be around!! I miss you so much. I am about to start highschool. I alway pray that you and granny are looking down and taking care of me when i am not aware that you are. Uncle Lester you dont know how much i love you. My heart sank when i was told about your death. I cried myself to sleep many times. All i see in my head and heart is you smiling when you looked at me. I wish i could have another chance to say goodbye to you. I still cry. I am writing from my heart and i feel the pain. It is so hard not to have you around. You listened to me when no one was. I miss everything about you. Your laugh, your smile, the way you hugged me and told me that you loved me. I wish were here with me!! Sometimes i hate the world because it took away so many great people that i loved. You were an amazing uncle. I miss you dearly. From the bottom of my heart I LOVE YOU!!!

Calllie Rose Tatum
Great niece

August 21, 2011

It’s May 19 2010, this December 28 will mark five years since we lost you. All my experiences have shaped the woman I am today and I believe you would be proud of me. Losing you catapulted me into a wilderness of the mild that I was not accustomed to. Immediately after I lost you my world was hell, I was so lost completely and my every strength was tested. Out of that hell I brought a lovely little boy name Jude into the world that I just know you would have adored. He’ll be three years old in October.
I work with Karen again and I love it!! I still need to challenge my mind so when I get bored I take some college courses to remind myself I am capable of intelligent thought. I recently bought a little house on the Scenic Loop and we lead a very peaceful life. I know you wouldn’t approve of the location but I’m a tough girl and I don’t fear much. We go to church on Sundays as a family and sometimes even on Wednesday nights; I bet you never would have expected that would you? Lliam is five and he will start kindergarten this August, it’s just one of the many things you’d be proud of!! I miss you so much.
Daddy you made me the tough as nails girl I am today and I am so thankful for you as a father figure. You raised us like your boys and you taught us right from wrong, you taught us to fight like boys and use our wit before violence, you made sure we took pride in ourselves and made little men out of your daughters; you were an amazing parent. There isn’t a day that goes by that I’m not reminded of your brilliance. I love you and I find my peace knowing that you’ve found yours.

Rebekah tatum/Clark
daughter

May 19, 2010

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 4th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

I pray for solace for those who miss and love you for I know the pain and pride are forever.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater

December 29, 2009

Lester was an awesome man and friend to all who knew him. Such a loss is still a shock years later. He will never be forgotten and always remembered for the laughter and smiles he made. We will forever miss you. Darlene

Darlene Brockus
Cousin

March 2, 2009

You were highlighted on the website today. Time has not diminished your
service nor your sacrifice.
Lynn Kole
Bellingham, WA

Anonymous

January 9, 2009

Today makes 3 years since we lost a great officer and an even greater friend. Hopefully time will eventually make the pain and hurt easier for all your loved ones; as for now it still seems like yesterday. We all have lot of good and fun memories (such as Lawnmover Racing)which will always bring smiles to our faces. I will always remember the positive impact you had on James and how it changed him, we will never forget you.

Love to my friend and his family.

Betsy

Betsy Drew
Friend

December 28, 2008

"The Badge"

He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.

He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.

Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.

He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.

His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.

He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.

And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.

But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.

Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.

Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.

So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.

In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.

Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.

Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1993 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

March 5, 2008

It has been 2 years and you are still missed.

Sgt. Stephen Ener
Harris COunty Constable Pct.4

February 27, 2008

Thank you for your service, and we remember you on this 2 year anniversary of your EOW.

Craig Figgins
Brother - SGT Dan Figgins St Charles, IL EOW 4/9/05

December 28, 2007

YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY AND THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE

VANDENBERGHE
MANCHESTER, NH

December 27, 2007

We were not the best of friends but, you will not be forgotten. For your friends and family, I am truely sorry.
God Speed,
Bill

Bill Cunningham
Polk County Constable Pct 2

September 28, 2007

I went to the Capital today to honor you and your family. May God keep you close as I pray for those you had to leave behind.

Terry Donovan,spouse of Amy Lynn Donovan EOW 31 October 2004

May 7, 2007

I know it has been a very long year for those that love you and there have been many silent tears. You have not been forgotten nor will that ever be the case as you are a true hero and heroes never die. Continue to keep watch over your loved ones, protect them and guide them on lifes path. Also, keep watch over those still out on patrol guarding over the Thin Blue Line. You will never be forgotten.

Bob Gordon
Father of Fallen Officer: Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

December 28, 2006

Today has been a year since the death of Deputy Tatum. Just wanted to let the family know that he has not be forgotten and that others like you that have lost a loved one in the line of duty are thinking of you today.

Stephanie
Dennis Wright eow 11/17/2006 mother to his son

December 28, 2006

Lester worked with me at two extra jobs when he was the constable for Polk County. He was so excited about police work and was enjoyable to work with. He will be missed greatly.

Officer E.F.McKelroy
Houston Police Department

June 19, 2006